OMUTHIYA - Over 150 exhibitors are expected to showcase their products at this year’s annual Omuthiya Youth Fair slated for later this month, recording a triple increase from the less than 50 who participated last year.
“This year we recorded a high number of exhibitors which is already an indication that the event will likely be a success,” said the youth fair’s chairperson David Uusiku, adding that all is set for the event.
“We have also picked members from the marginalised community who will be exhibiting for free, giving them an opportunity to promote their traditional products and generate income.”
The fair will run for five days from September 25 at Omuthiya recreational park, and will be held under the theme ‘Creating opportunities, employment and entrepreneurship.’ Founding President Sam Nujoma will grace the occasion, organisers say.
“I would like to inform other aspiring exhibitors, especially the corporate entities, that stalls are still available. The deadline of July only applies to the food and beverages section, thus we still receive applications in other categories,” added Uusiku.
He however urged exhibitors to mostly display products that are locally made, thus growing the economy from within. In the same vein he said such occasions bridge the gap between the people and service providers.
Furthermore, he said, as part of grooming the indigenous people, each constituency is expected to present someone who can come and exhibit so that they can impart their knowledge and experience as well as awareness to fellow community members.
Some of the activities lined up include Owela, a beauty pageant and dance competitions as well as performances by local artists.
“There is more in stock for the nation – we are striving for the economic emancipation of our country, hence the need to provide a platform to various individuals and stakeholders to grow and generate an income as well as gaining skills and knowledge from others. In terms of security, we will be having Men and Women Network personnel as well as the Namibian police throughout the entire event to ensure utmost safety for our visitors,” stressed Uusiku.
He said the fact that the event is called Omuthiya Youth Fair does not denote that it’s only for the youth or people of Oshikoto. Instead, he said, it was just an idea born by the youth, but it is a national event meant for everyone.