MINISTER of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, has called for a shift in perspective regarding the Totem Expo, urging that it be viewed as a national event, rather than solely a northern one.
Iipumbu made the call during the official opening of the Oshakati Totem Expo on Saturday. She emphasised the expo’s potential to evolve into an international cultural and trade platform through strategic planning and the establishment of global partnerships.
“Our totems are part of a much larger African story, and that story deserves to be told on global platforms,” she said.
Iipumbu highlighted the rich cultural significance of the totems and their connection to broader African heritage, advocating for their promotion on the world stage.
She also issued a call to action to all towns and local authorities across Namibia, urging them to support each other’s trade shows and expositions.
“Let us support one another’s trade shows and expositions. When we promote each other’s growth, we promote Namibia’s growth. Unity is our strength — economically, culturally, and socially,” she added.
She also commended the Oshakati Town Council and all its partners for their dedication and vision in organising this important exposition.
She stressed that it demonstrates how local authorities can play a catalytic role in both preserving cultural heritage and driving sustainable economic growth.
Meanwhile, Oshana Governor Elia Irimari expressed pride in the fact that all three towns in the region — Oshakati, Ondangwa, and Ongwediva — host trade shows and expositions that contribute meaningfully to regional economic development.
“And today, we gather here particularly for the Totem Expo in Oshakati, and we look forward to the Ondangwa Trade Fair, which will take place from late June to early July, followed by the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair in August,” he said.
He noted that these events are not only trade shows and expositions but are also key drivers of growth, tourism, and investment in the region.
