Staff Reporter
THE 25th Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) is open, with 487 exhibitors taking part this year, up from around 450 in 2025, when the event attracted more than 70,000 visitors.
Of the exhibitors participating this year, 36 are international exhibitors from South Africa, Egypt, Angola, Tanzania, Ghana, Botswana and Nigeria.
The milestone edition is expected to draw exhibitors, visitors and businesses to Ongwediva as the trade fair celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Oshana Regional Police Commander Commissioner Andreas Shipingana Shilelo has assured exhibitors, visitors and the public that the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) will maintain a heightened security presence throughout the event.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, a fireworks display will be held on Saturday from 20:00 to 21:00 at the Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre.
Members of the public, nearby residents, parents and pet owners have been advised to take the necessary precautions, as the display may be accompanied by loud noises.
The trade fair will officially open on Sunday, 23 August, with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah officiating at the ceremony at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair Grounds. Gates for the official opening will open at 07:00.
The celebrations will begin on Friday with an opening live performance at the Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre, featuring performances by Wild Dogs, Karabo and Mentality Boy.
Admission for the opening bash is N$20 for children, N$30 for adults and N$20 per car.
The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair will run from 21 to 29 August 2026.
Photos: NamRA/Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair – OATF
