Africa-Press – Namibia. OPUWO – Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has called for urgent land delivery, increased investment and stronger collaboration between traditional and local authorities to unlock Opuwo’s economic potential.
Ngurare said this in a speech delivered on his behalf during the 2026 Opuwo Annual Trade Fair fundraising gala dinner on Thursday.
He stressed that land remains central to development, warning that without it, economic progress will stall.
“Land is the foundation of development. Without land, there can be no housing, no universities, no industries, and no economic expansion,” he said.
He called on traditional authorities to make land available to local authorities, saying this is critical to enabling structured and accelerated development in line with national goals.
“Traditional authorities are therefore called upon to make adequate land available. This is not merely an administrative necessity; it is a national imperative,” he said.
Ngurare further revealed that investors are already showing interest in Opuwo but cannot proceed due to land constraints.
He noted that Opuwo has the potential to become a major economic hub, but this requires decisive action and improved coordination among stakeholders.
“Opuwo has the potential to become the next economic hub of Namibia. That potential must not remain a promise; it must become a reality,” he added. He also highlighted infrastructure projects such as the Trans-Kunene Highway and the Baynes Hydropower Project as catalysts for economic transformation.
Ngurare urged the business community to support the trade fair, noting: “Investing in this trade fair is investing in the economic future of Opuwo.”
Meanwhile, over N$812 000 was raised in pledges during the gala dinner.
The event was held under the theme ‘Opuwo at a Glance: Progress, Challenges and Opportunities’.
The 13th edition of the Opuwo Annual Trade Fair is scheduled to take place from 20 April to 2 May 2026.
Opuwo Rural Constituency councillor and chairperson of the Kunene Regional Council, Western Muharukua, said the funds raised exclude contributions in kind and livestock donations.
He said the annual event will officially open on 23 April, with activities such as horse and donkey racing, a boxing bonanza, a career and innovation fair, an agriculture and livestock forum, the 2026 Miss Opuwo beauty pageant, and music performances forming part of the two-week programme.
Muharukua encouraged the public, investors and businesses to participate in the trade fair and take advantage of the opportunities it presents.
“The journey has begun, and the future is indeed promising. Let us continue to work together to build a prosperous Kunene region,” he said.
The councillor emphasised the role of business leaders, investors and traditional authorities in driving economic growth, job creation and sustainable development, adding that continued collaboration between government, traditional leaders and the private sector would unlock the region’s full potential.
He commended regional leadership, as well as the Opuwo Town Council, for a well-coordinated event that brought together local authorities, business leaders, traditional authorities and community members to support the town’s flagship economic and cultural initiative.
“This evening has not only been a successful gathering, but also a powerful demonstration of unity, shared vision and commitment to the growth of Opuwo and the broader Kunene Region,” Muharukua said. – Nampa
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