Windhoek
Exhibitors and organisers drew a positive balance in the exhibition halls at the end of the 10th annual Okakarara Trade Fair (OTFS), executive chairperson Elia Kandjii said yesterday. With about 11 700 visitors this year the fair surpassed even the organisers’ expectations.
Kandjii said the OTFS’s aim is to drive the spirit of innovation, create business networks and unleash economic opportunities for each member of society through capacity building and enhancing capitalisation for socio-economic emancipation.
“The recently held fair was mega and very enticing as compared to previous years, as preparation efforts were harnessed to ensure a different flavour, shape and remarkable moment in recognition and celebration of ten years of trade promotion and facilitation of business,” he said.
This expansion, he noted, was evident in the increase from 270 to 325 exhibitors and also an increase in the number of international exhibitors from 6 to 18. He said the international exhibitors are from Ghana, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, DRC, Zambia, South Africa, India and Botswana.
The fair also recorded 169 large livestock, 327 small livestock and game, as well as reptiles, camels and snakes on exhibition, he said.
The number of visitors rose from 12 000 to 16 000, but most visitors were recorded on Friday’s official opening and on Saturday during the music concert.
Kandjii used the opportunity to pay tribute to private institutions that sponsored the event, saying sponsors are an important part in the successful running of the fair.
“It could not have happened in the absence of the people, who volunteered and worked tirelessly and puzzled all pieces together in the name of the tenth anniversary,” he said.
He also commended Kasuto Solar Energy for playing a critical role in the success of the event, primarily in ensuring the control of traffic on the main road at the Trade Fair Centre, which helped to reduce the risk of potential road accidents.