Africa-Press – Namibia. //Kharas regional governor David Gertze says the tourism and agriculture industries are exceptionally well positioned to promote the expansion of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
He made this statement while delivering remarks at a fundraising gala dinner for the 69th edition of the Keetmanshoop Agricultural, Industrial and Tourism Expo (Kaite) last weekend.
“Their involvement underscores our collective dedication to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and for our region to prosper,” he explained.
“Trade expos like Kaite are not merely annual gatherings; they are vibrant crucibles of opportunity, serving as indispensable platforms for economic growth and community development,” Gertze added. Highlighting the benefits for the region’s local economy, he said the initiative represents a vital artery, pumping life into various sectors by stimulating trade, attracting investment, and promoting the exchange of ideas and expertise.
Gertze urged all sectors of society, from individual citizens to corporate entities, to broaden their support for the Keetmanshoop expo to ensure its sustained success and expansion.
In the keynote address, read on his behalf, Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) chief of marketing and corporate communications Jerome Mutumba said fundraising for events like Kaite highlight that development is not the responsibility of an individual, institution or sector, but also the collective work of communities who care deeply about their future.
“This expo is proof of the harvest of vision and perseverance, bringing together agriculture, industry and tourism on one platform that celebrates local potential,” he emphasised.
Mutumba explained the DBN’s mission as one that has always empowered businesses, supported growth and enabled transformation. He also gave an assurance of the financial institution’s commitment to being a partner in driving Namibia’s development story. Kaite patron Benedictus Diergaardt described the upcoming expo as a celebration of the region’s vision and resilience as a people, and their unwavering belief in the future of Keetmanshoop, the //Kharas region and Namibia at large.
“Expos are more than showcases of goods and services; they are catalysts of transformation, creating a marketplace where tradition meets innovation and small businesses meet global investors,” he said.
Diergaardt added that the returns on investing in this platform are far-reaching, touching lives and livelihoods long after the expo has ended.
“That is why I want to take this moment to recognise and appreciate the contributions of our sponsors, partners and all institutions that have walked this journey with us,” he said.
More than N$300 000 was pledged during the gala dinner.
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