Maria David
THE Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 1,500 exhibitor applications received annually — a significant jump from fewer than 100 in its early years.
This was according to Rebekka Hidulika, Chairperson of the OATF Society, who said they need to upgrade their infrastructure, as the current facilities can only accommodate 485 exhibitors, forcing the OATF Society to turn away over 500 applications each year.
Hidulika made the remarks during the OATF gala dinner held in Ongwediva on Saturday.
For this year’s edition, Hidulika indicated that they project to host around 480 exhibitors.
“We are proud to welcome delegations and exhibitors from across the SADC region, as well as from countries including Ghana, Japan, and Indonesia,” she said.
She added that among the many innovations for this year, the OATF is extending its Business Forum to two full days.
The first day will feature Business-to-Business Matchmaking Sessions with a high-level business delegation from South Africa’s Limpopo Province.
She explained that this initiative aims to unlock cross-border partnerships and investment opportunities, noting the OATF’s pivotal role in fostering regional economic integration.
“The vision for the OATF is clear: to transform the annual trade fair into a multi-purpose, smart, and sustainable business connector, building and shaping the future of our economy,” she added.
She added that the society aims for the OATF to become a beacon of progress, not only for Ongwediva but for Namibia and the entire southern African region.
This year, an amount of over N$1.6 million was raised for the OATF.
The 2025 OATF will be held under the dynamic theme: “Innovate – Connect – Prosper.”
