USAKOS – For Hendrik Eric Muronga, this year’s Araf Trade Fair was more than just another exhibition – it was proof that hard work and perseverance can pay off.
The fair took place in Usakos, attracting hundreds of visitors during the three-day event. Not only were corporates present, but locals were also given the opportunity to network and share expertise with businesses and other exhibitors.
Muronga, a wood crafter from Kavango West, was one of the exhibitors who benefitted greatly from the trade fair. He brought along handmade furniture from Rundu, which proved popular among the visitors. By the second day, all his chairs had already sold out, leaving only tables on display.
“I was very surprised when people came and bought all my chairs. It really made me happy and gave me confidence to continue with my business,” he said while pointing to the few remaining items.
Muronga started his trade in 2019 after moving away from making flower pots. Since then, he has focused on furniture, which he proudly makes by hand. However, the business has not been without challenges.
“Like in any business, sometimes you stand and sometimes you fall. For me, the biggest challenge is the material. Wood is not easy to get, and there are many procedures and permits that one must follow. At times, I have to wait two or three months before I can get material,” he explained.
Despite these obstacles, Muronga believes that events such as the Araf Trade Fair are crucial for small business owners. This year was his first time participating, after being encouraged by the Usakos mayor and staff from the town council.
“I was lucky to meet the mayor when I first arrived in Usakos. She, as well as the council employees, motivated me to take part. They really welcomed me, and that is why I decided to exhibit my work,” he said.
His stall has since drawn a lot of attention, with visitors sharing photos and videos of his furniture on social media. This exposure has already brought in new enquiries about his work.
“People ask for my number after seeing the posts online, and that is how I am also advertising my business,” he said.
Executive director in the office of the Prime Minister Ben Nangobe during the opening of the trade for also said that it can indeed serve as a catalyst for empowerment and wealth creation through various initiatives and business ventures.
This is possible because the fair brings together businesses, potential investors, farmers, small miners, and local communities onto one platform where opportunities can be created and realised, and where partnerships are born and pursued. “In many ways, this festival is a reflection of what our country needs to do to strengthen industrialisation, value addition, employment creation and overall economic empowerment of our communities.
“For far too long, Namibia has been known as an exporter of raw materials. This has started to change. Through agro-processing, leather manufacturing, gemstone cutting and polishing, and food processing, we must expand value addition to what we produce locally. This will not only create employment for our youth, but also increase the wealth that stays within our borders,” he appealed.
edeklerk@nepc.com.na