Steven Klukowski

KEETMANSHOOP - The board of directors of the Keetmanshoop Agricultural, Industrial and Tourism Expo (KAITE) are optimistic that this year’s edition will be bigger and better than previous ones, with a host of local and international exhibitors confirmed. This is despite challenges caused by Covid-19, the negative effects of the drought and a lack of finances,

The show is slated for 31 October to 4 November 2023.  Charles Josob, president of the non-profit organisation, commended the fact that they could attract 15 exhibitors from the Northern Cape in South Africa, resulting from a twinning
agreement between the //Kharas regional council and the Northern Cape provincial government.

“I belief this was a milestone reached as it strengthens the ties between the two governmental institutions, as part of the economic stream of the agreement,” he enthused. Josob said entrepreneurial ideas were shared, whilst networking between owners dealing in the same type of business could be achieved. The board member also described the expo as one of the biggest in the //Kharas region, enabling the much-needed economic injection for the business fraternity, in particular small-and-medium enterprises.

“In terms of planned pre-activities for the 2023 KAITE, we will host two gala dinners at the Arebbusch Lodge in Windhoek on 30 June 2023 and the local Moth Hall on 1 September 2023 as a means to raise funds to make it a reality, whilst Miss Expo will be crowned on 30 September this year,” said Jossob. He added that there is also an expo dance/karaoke night planned, whose dates will be announced at a later stage.

Visitors can look forward to a business seminar, agricultural sessions, ‘slaglam’ competition, children’s entertainment and food and alcoholic beverages’ stalls.

Jossob thanked all relevant stakeholders and visitors for their continuous support in making the expo a success every year.