ONGWEDIVA – The Ongwediva Trade Fair centre will again be a hive of activity when gates open this morning to let in thousands of visitors for the popular Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair.
The centre was developed to host the trade fair through a public-private partnership under the management of the town council and has successfully been doing so since the first fair in the year 2000.
“The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair has over the years developed into a leading national
and international trade and exhibition event
on the Namibian business calendar and continues
to draw interest from all sectors of our economy,” said Ongwediva mayor Tarah Shalyefu. He said the fundamental element of hosting the OATF is for the town council to create opportunities that shall facilitate trade and business linkages between indigenous market entrepreneurs,
not only for Ongwediva but for the entire northern regions with foreign business personalities.
Shalyefu added that it further serves as an opportunity to expose the products and services of small and medium enterprises (SME) in addition to creating a forum for smart partnerships with established corporate entities.
“Complementing the activities of the
OATF, the Ongwediva Trade Centre is strategically located, with excellent infrastructure, services and facilities,” he said proudly.
The total coverage area of the centre is 20 000m², consisting of offices (some for rent), a conference hall, three exhibition halls, a restaurant, entertainment kiosks, kids’ entertainment area, ablution blocks and
a vast open space for parking and future expansion of the centre.
Shalyefu cautioned the public to be vigilant against thieves, as incidents of robbery are expected to occur during the trade fair.
He said the police have put measures in place to prevent and combat crime, including the recent trend where criminals have targeted business people.
“During the trade fair time, Oshakati, Ondangwa and Ongwediva become crowded with people from all corners of the country with their families. Some of those coming or already here might have other intentions, including committing crimes,” he said.
The fair ends on 2 September.
– vkaapanda@nepc.com.na