2006-09-08Staff Report 2 "By Petronella Sibeene WINDHOEK With preparations for the Windhoek Agricultural and Industrial Show at an advanced stage, President of the Windhoek Show Society (WSS) Theo Schoeman has assured the public that a much more exciting 2006 show awaits them. Yesterday, Schoeman said unlike in the past years, the organizing committee wants to make this year's show different. The show starts on September 29 and ends on October 7. ""This year, the show will be exciting,"" said Schoeman. He said there would be many new attractions this year. Unlike in the past when the show would have had a main theme, this will not be the case. However, each hall will have its own theme."" He added that the organizing committee had agreed on grouping exhibitors based on the products they produce or showcase. ""We will have the Namibian Hall, Home Utility, Textile, and Health and Beauty, all in different halls,"" he said. Previously, there were complaints from some members of the public that exhibitors showcased the same products yearly at exorbitant prices. Schoeman says the organizing committee this year urged exhibitors to bring rare yet affordable merchandize to the show. ""There will be less traders selling Mickey Mouse goods,"" he said. At least 370 industrial exhibitors are expected this year. These will mainly come from Namibia and other foreign countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana and Indonesia. Nedbank upgraded the entrance on the western side of the show grounds while the main entrance remains in the care of Standard Bank. The entertainment plaza has also been upgraded. Next to the Breweries is the social plaza, a 'hibernating spot' for show-goers. Unlike in the past when small and medium business entrepreneurs were located at the traditional food point that many described as 'hidden', the group will this year be next to the President's Hall. ""We are trying to incorporate them in the main show,"" said Schoeman. On the entertainment side, Schoeman says there will be among other surprises the traditional fireworks. The opening of the show will be something different from the previous years. The grand opening will be done using a helicopter and this will be available to the public on that day for scenic views around the show. Another important area to visit at the show will be the agriculture site. There will be 1 500 small livestock and 600 large stock. Auctioning will take place a day before the show ends. This, according to Schoeman, will be an ideal opportunity for emerging black farmers to purchase breeding stock. This year, the entry fee to the show grounds remains the same as last year with adults paying N$20.00 and N$10.00 for children. Learners who come in groups will be required to pay N$5.00. Schoeman called on schools to allow their learners to visit the show this year as they (learners) need exposure to different ideas. Security and stand-by services at the show remain guaranteed." 2006-09-08Staff Report 2
