Maria David
THE Oshikuku Town Council has raised over N$500,000 in cash and in-kind donations for the Oshikuku Annual Trade Fair.
The fair is scheduled to take place from 26 October to 2 November 2024 at the Young Star Sports Field, under the theme “Oshikuku: Creating Opportunities for Socio-Economic Growth for Investors.”
First National Bank (FNB), the main sponsor, pledged N$40,000, Kambwa Trading contributed N$20,000 plus labour to fence off the sports field, and Rani Group of Companies donated N$15,000.
Minister of Industrialisation and Trade, Lucia Iipumbu, urged Namibians to support the Oshikuku Town Council’s efforts to develop the town and realize its objectives.
Speaking at the fundraising event for the 3rd annual Oshikuku Expo on Saturday, Iipumbu emphasized that through public support, Oshikuku can attract investment and create a conducive environment that provides employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
According to Iipumbu, the latest data shows that about 70% of Namibia’s population is under the age of 35, which highlights the need to cater to the needs of this youthful demographic.
“Our priority must be to enhance the provision of public services and social amenities essential for a better quality of life. We must also remain committed to creating better opportunities for our citizens in everything we do,” she said.
She further encouraged Namibians to continue supporting the initiative.
Iipumbu also said that through its strategic plan, the Oshikuku Town Council aims to position Oshikuku as the residential hub of the Omusati Region. This involves providing more serviced land for residential purposes, which would attract more investments to the town and allow investors to benefit from the growing market.
She emphasized that the strategic plan should serve as a roadmap for achieving the town’s objectives. “Let us all internalize this document and identify areas where we can contribute and make an impact on the advancement and well-being of the community.”
Meanwhile, Oshikuku Mayor Julia Endjambi said the Council’s goal is to promote Oshikuku and make it known as a destination for investors.
“We believe these investments will have a meaningful impact on the socio-economic situation of the town and ultimately improve the lives of the people,” she said.
She added that Oshikuku is surrounded by five constituencies—Elim, Etayi, Ogongo, Okalongo, and Oshikuku—and is home to young professionals, many of whom are employed by the government as police officers, educators, and health professionals. The Council believes it can accommodate even more residents by providing additional residential space.
