Africa-Press – Namibia. The role of local authorities in supporting the government’s development agenda cannot be overemphasised.
This was said by urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa, who commended the Ondangwa Town Council for its commitment to promoting local economic development.
He made these remarks in a speech read on his behalf during the official opening of Ondangwa Trade Fair yesterday.
A total of 280 exhibitors including various organizations are participating at the 12th edition of the fair.
The trade fair started on 27 June and is scheduled to end on Saturday.
The minister added that across the globe, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are recognised as the backbone of thriving economies, contributing to innovation, job creation, inclusive growth and economic resilience.
However, “our MSME sector is faced with many challenges hampering their growth and development.”
“They lack trading spaces/ premises, lack capacity and skills to innovate, market and promote their products among others,” he said.
Sankwasa said events like exhibitions are timely and strategic.
“They provide MSMEs – especially those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic – with an opportunity to re-establish themselves,” he said.
Furthermore, he said this exhibition fosters sustainability in Ondangwa and the broader Oshana region, providing a vital meeting space for public and corporate entities and the business community to interact directly with consumers.
“A thriving economy is shaped not only by infrastructure and administrative reforms, but it is equally heavily dependent on the innovativeness of the business community. Therefore, strong collaboration between the government and the private sector is essential in equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and resources needed to develop new products, enhance value chains, and add value to raw materials,” the minister said.
Sankwasa urged Namibian businesses to expand their presence in manufacturing and value addition, leveraging supportive government policies.
Also speaking at the event was Ondangwa mayor Paavo Amuele, who said the exhibition was not only to showcase products and services but also a platform for sharing ideas and building networks to propel Ondangwa and Namibia to greater heights.
“Let us use this opportunity to collaborate, inspire, and build a brighter, more resilient future together,” he added.
Most exhibitors who spoke to New Era expressed joy that the Ondangwa Trade Fair has been going well since day one.
“People are coming in large numbers to support our businesses. We are truly grateful for this opportunity to showcase our products,” said one of them.
For More News And Analysis About Namibia Follow Africa-Press
