Onesmus Embula
WINHDOEK – This year’s annual Windhoek Industrial and Agricultural Show has received scathing reviews from some exhibitors who blame poor turnout to the ongoing economic crisis in the country.
According to exhibitors, preferring anonymity for fear of victimisation by organisers, this year event is not up to standard and some attendees have labelled it as one of the worst events in recent years. “The customers are lacking this year compared to the past years and I believe it is because of the current economic downturn the country is facing”, said one exhibitor. He added that a lack of disposable income is one of the main reasons the event is not attracting the anticipated number of visitors.
The annual Windhoek Industrial and Agricultural Show is owned by Windhoek Show Society (WSS) and this year kicked-off on September 28 and is scheduled to end on October 06 with a massive fireworks display in the capital.
Another exhibitor mentioned the need to put more effort in advertising and marketing awareness of the show. “The management and organisers should consider live broadcasts of the event, such as radio coverage, to create more awareness and make use of social media platforms to generate more leads and attract the youth because I suspect the public is partially informed about the dates and activities happening at the event”, the exhibitor narrated.
Meanwhile, Johan Snyder a Gondwana commended the organisers for their efforts in making the event a success. “We cannot entirely blame organisers. If people don’t have money due to economic recession and other financial constraints, organisers can hardly do anything about it”, said Snyder. He continue that he is particularly impressed by the variety of food such as African cuisine and ‘braai’ meat amongst the exhibitions.
He described the event as fun and friendly for kids, friend’s get-together and family gatherings with most people turning up on weekends and afternoons as peak time on casual days.