OUTAPI – Exhibitors at the Olufuko Annual Festival have expressed joy over the high turnout of people at the centre, which has boosted support for their businesses. 

The traders said they are grateful for the opportunity to participate and showcase their products. 

The Olufuko Annual Festival, which started last week, is scheduled to end on 1 July at Outapi in the Omusati region. 

More than 40 exhibitors, including various institutions, are participating in this year’s event. 

Ndahambelela Kashimulu (73) from Ondangwa, who sells traditional food, said she is pleased with the strong customer support since day one. 

“I have been part of several expos selling my products. It has changed my life,” she said. 

She stated that despite receiving a social grant, she chose not to stay at home and rely solely on her pension. 

“I made the right decision to start selling. My business helped me pay for my children’s education and support my family,” she proudly said. 

Another exhibitor Teopolina Andreas (29) stated that without the town council organising expos like Olufuko, they would not have such opportunities. 

“The town council should continue hosting expos because this is the best chance for us to sell our products and earn an income,” she said. 

Andreas added that such events help create job opportunities for young people. 

“I’m selling on behalf of my aunt. I was just sitting at home doing nothing, but now I have something to be grateful for,” she said. 

Also speaking to New Era, Lukas Hanghome (28) from Oshikuku, who sells alcohol and kapana, said the event has given him a great opportunity to make money, especially during the evenings. 

“People come out in large numbers at night, especially the youth,” he stated. 

Hanghome, who is currently unemployed, said he is thankful for being allowed to take part in the expo. 

“I also appreciate the safety here. We feel secure because of the police presence and private security companies,” he added. 

However, some exhibitors have expressed frustration over the lack of automatic teller machines at the Olufuko Centre. 

They say it is challenging, as many customers prefer withdrawing money to make cash purchases. 

Members of the public told New Era that they are pleased with the services available at Olufuko, particularly the home affairs ministry. 

– fhamalwa@nepc.com.na