SWAKOPMUND – The Amalgamated Rotation Annual Festival is set to return this week, promising to be bigger and better than before.
ARAF was established after Omaruru, Karibib and Usakos agreed in 2022 to promote collaboration and resource- sharing by jointly hosting their trade expo, named OKULAC (Omaruru, Karibib, Usakos Local Authority Corporation).
The inaugural festival was held in Omaruru last year, and was regarded
a huge success as it provided local entrepreneurs with a platform to innovate and diversify their products and services. This initiative not only helps businesses increase their return on investment, but also allows them to explore opportunities within the African market.
Valentinus Sindongo, the chairperson of OKULAC said Karibib will host the festival this year, and Usakos will host it the following year. “This year’s ARAF will be held under the theme ‘Bigger, Better, Broader.’ The festival aims to drive economic integration by reducing trade barriers, improving access to goods and services, boosting consumer spending power, and fostering market expansion within the region,” he said.
The joint festival will start today, and end on Sunday.
According to him, local authorities play a pivotal role in promoting local economic development by developing infrastructure, and extending services to residents. However, their efforts are often constrained by resource limitations.
“Therefore, initiatives to attract investment are highly commendable as they enhance the capacities of local authorities to create employment, and stimulate economic growth,” Sindongo said.
He added that the event provides a vital platform for local businesses, corporations, small and medium enterprises and farmers to showcase their products and services directly to residents and visitors. This year’s edition is expected to create more employment opportunities for locals, while generating revenue for participating entrepreneurs. The official opening of the event will take place tomorrow. It will be followed by a small miners’ information session on Friday, while a boxing bonanza and music show by local artists will be held on Friday evening. The agricultural show will start on Saturday morning, while a comedy show and a music bash will take place later that day. A gospel show is also expected to take place on Sunday to close off the activities.
Applications for outside SMEs,
corporate and agricultural exhibitors are still open. Interested parties can contact Melody !Gontes or Jennifer Ecklund via ledofficer@karibibtown.org and jenniferecklundpcv@gmail.com, or 081 162 4302 for more information.