Eenhana Expo opens with bold call for innovation, economic growth

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah officially opened the 15th edition of the Eenhana Expo in Ohangwena on Monday, calling on Namibians to embrace innovation, support local enterprise and empower the youth.Nandi-Ndaitwah praised the expo’s role in driving economic transformation, noting that its theme, 'Advancing Innovation and Diversification', aligns with the newly launched sixth national development plan (NDP6), which emphasises economic growth, inclusiveness and resilience.“This expo is not just a local event but a platform contributing to our national development agenda,” the president said, adding that 85% of this year’s 199 exhibitors are youth, with 72 representing the creative sector. The president stressed the importance of expos as engines for small and medium enterprise (SME) growth and cross-border trade, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).She, however, noted the low international participation at this year’s event and urged organisers to enhance marketing efforts to attract more global exhibitors.Empower and supportHighlighting youth empowerment as a cornerstone of development, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the recently announced N$257 million National Youth Fund will become operational in August.The fund, accessible with or without collateral through financial institutions, aims to stimulate youth-led job creation in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, the creative industry and sports.She said the regional governors have been sensitised on the fund's operation and are expected to spread the message and identify youth-led projects in their respective regions.“Let us make use of this expo for high-level business networking. It is a platform to learn what is available in the market and shape our economic future,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.The president also took the opportunity to comment on rising suicide rates in Namibia, particularly in the Ohangwena region, urging communities to reflect and support each other. “We have an inclusive government. We must listen and pay attention to one another,” she said. Full programmeDelivering the welcoming remarks, Ohangwena governor Kadiva Hamutumwa said the expo is not just a calendar event but “a symbol of unity, progress, and national pride.“We are celebrating Namibian talent, entrepreneurship and the power of innovation to change lives,” Hamutumwa underlined. Hamutumwa applauded the commitment of the town council, sponsors like MTC, FNB Namibia and the Rani Group of Companies, and all those who contributed to the success of the event.This year exhibitors include participants from Tanzania and South Africa. This year’s programme reflects key government priorities, including youth empowerment, sports development, creative arts and health promotion. Activities range from investment showcases to sports competitions in soccer, netball, boxing and marathon racing, hosted at the partially completed Eenhana Sports Facility.A new feature is the SME cooking training and competition, designed to equip local food entrepreneurs with business and culinary skills.The expo also includes live music performances and the Miss Eenhana Expo 2025 pageant, which celebrates local culture, intelligence, and beauty.The expo will run throughout the week.tuyeimo@nmh-hub.com.na

Eenhana Expo opens with bold call for innovation, economic growth

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

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Eenhana Expo opens with bold call for innovation, economic growth

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

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