Lahja Nashuuta 

With only a few days left before the much-anticipated Totem Expo, Oshakati mayor Leonard Hango said the town is fully prepared to host the event. 

The expo is expected to boost economic activity, attract investment and strengthen Oshakati’s position as a commercial hub in northern Namibia. 

In a conversation with New Era, Hango described the expo as a strategic platform aimed at stimulating local economic growth and creating opportunities for businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs). 

LN: What does the Totem Expo mean for Oshakati in terms of economic growth and investment? 

LH: The Oshakati Totem Expo is a strategic economic platform that contributes directly to local economic growth by creating opportunities for businesses, attracting investors and promoting trade within the northern regions of Namibia. 

The Expo provides SMEs with market access, exposure and valuable networking opportunities. At the same time, it positions Oshakati as an attractive destination for investment and business expansion. 

The event also stimulates economic activity through increased business transactions, tourism and stakeholder engagement, which ultimately contributes to job creation and local economic development. 

LN: How does the expo align with Oshakati Town Council’s long-term development strategy? 

LH: The Totem Expo aligns fully with Oshakati Town Council’s broader vision of strengthening the town’s position as a commercial and service hub for northern Namibia. 

It supports key strategic priorities such as local economic development, investment promotion, SME empowerment as well as enhanced collaboration between the public and private sectors. 

The Expo is, therefore, not merely an annual event, but a practical implementation of Council’s vision to drive inclusive economic growth and sustainable urban development. 

LN: How is the town preparing in terms of infrastructure and service delivery ahead of the expo? 

LH: The Oshakati Town Council has taken proactive measures to ensure that infrastructure and service delivery meet the demands of hosting a major event such as the Totem Expo. 

Preparations include the maintenance and upgrading of key access roads, strengthening waste management systems through increased collection and monitoring, and ensuring reliable water supply and sanitation services throughout the expo. 

In addition, various municipal departments are working in close coordination to ensure operational efficiency and smooth service delivery during the event. 

LN: What improvements or upgrades have been implemented ahead of the expo? 

LH: Ahead of the expo, Council has intensified road maintenance and accessibility improvements, while also undertaking town cleaning and beautification campaigns to ensure Oshakati remains welcoming and attractive to visitors. 

We have further implemented enhancements at the expo venue itself to better accommodate exhibitors, businesses and members of the public. 

These improvements are not only aimed at ensuring the success of the expo but also form part of Council’s ongoing efforts to improve Oshakati’s urban environment and infrastructure. 

LN: What message do you have for potential investors, and which sectors are currently prioritised for investment in Oshakati? 

LH: Oshakati is open for investment. We encourage both local and international investors to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available in our town, particularly in sectors such as retail and commercial development, manufacturing and agro-processing, waste management and recycling, tourism and hospitality, as well as housing and property development. 

Council remains committed to creating an enabling environment through improved delivery service, access to serviced land and support for investment initiatives. 

We welcome partnerships that contribute to sustainable development, economic growth and job creation. 

LN: What is your broader vision for Oshakati over the next five to 10 years? 

LH: Our vision is to position Oshakati as a modern, inclusive and economically vibrant urban centre that continues to serve as a key gateway for northern Namibia. 

Over the next five to 10 years, we aim to expand and modernise infrastructure, strengthen service delivery systems, promote investment and industrial development, enhance urban planning and housing development, and improve the overall quality of life for our residents. 

We envision a town that is not only growing rapidly, but doing so in a structured, sustainable and inclusive manner. 

LN: Any final remarks you would like to share with the public? 

LH: The Totem Expo represents the spirit of collaboration, innovation and progress within Oshakati. 

We encourage the public, the business community and all stakeholders to actively participate in the expo and become part of shaping the future of our town. 

Through continued engagement, partnerships and collective effort, we believe Oshakati will continue to grow as a leading centre for commerce, investment and development in northern Namibia. 

– lnashuuta@nepc.com.