Maria David
MINISTER of Justice and Labour Relations Wise Immanuel said there is a need to empower young people to see culture not just as history, but as a livelihood.
Immanuel made the remarks during the official opening of the Ehao Business Expo on Monday in Okahao.
According to Immanuel, young people should be allowed to dream, create, and innovate within this space.
UNDERWAY: The official opening of the Ehao Expo at the Ehao Business Centre.
ENTERTAINMENT: The Ngwedha ya Shikongo captivated attendees with a vibrant cultural performance during the official opening of the Ehao Business Expo. Shikongo’s engaging display provided a memorable highlight for the expo, entertaining the audience and adding a rich cultural dimension to the event’s proceedings. Video by Maria David
SEIZE OPPORTUNITIES: Wise Immanuel, the Minister of Justice and Labour Relations, called upon the youth to actively pursue and capitalize on the opportunities available to them. Immanuel made these remarks during the official opening of the Ehao Business Expo in Okahao. His address emphasized the importance of youth engagement in economic and professional development. Video by Maria David
“Our rich traditions, languages, art, music, and customs are more than just symbols of identity; they are assets. They are the seeds from which we can grow jobs, businesses, and tourism-driven prosperity,” he said.
He added that the government, through various ministries and agencies, is committed to creating an enabling environment for cultural and creative industries. This includes capacity building, supportive policies, and infrastructure development.
Immanuel indicated that the Ehao Cultural Expo is a clear example of how culture and commerce can walk hand in hand. It creates a space where tradition inspires enterprise and where creativity opens the door to economic innovation.
He said the Ehao Expo is a powerful avenue, one that blends heritage preservation with economic opportunity.
“To all regional councils and local authorities, I encourage you to build on the example of the Ehao Cultural Expo. Let it inspire you to create similar platforms that both honour heritage and generate opportunity,” he added.
He stressed that they should continue to explore and expand this space.
“Let us treat our culture not only as a treasure to preserve but as a foundation upon which we can build a brighter, more inclusive economic future,” he said.
Immanuel explained that cultural preservation is not merely an act of remembrance; it is an act of resilience, pride, and nation-building.
He added that culture forms the bedrock of collective identity. It brings people together across ethnicities, generations, and geographical boundaries.
“Let us all—leaders, citizens, and institutions—join hands in safeguarding and celebrating our cultural expressions. Whether it’s through language, attire, dance, song, or storytelling, let us embed these traditions in our everyday lives,” he said.
He indicated that when people preserve culture, they preserve identity. When they nurture culture, they nurture unity. And when they promote culture, they empower a nation.
