Stage set for annual Ongwediva Trade Fair

The 24th edition of the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) is set to take place from 22 to 30 August under the theme ‘Innovate – Connect – Prosper’.Organisers promise this year’s event will be bigger and more connected, featuring expanded international participation and enhanced security measures.A total of 450 exhibitors, including 26 internationals from Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Indonesia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa, have confirmed their attendance, reflecting a significant increase in regional interest.Speaking at a recent media briefing, OATF society chairperson Rebekka Hidulika outlined a packed schedule of business engagements, cultural showcases and entertainment.Hidulika said a new highlight this year is the business-to-business matchmaking session, which will facilitate targeted commercial engagements between Namibian businesses and a visiting delegation from the Limpopo Province in South Africa.She said preparations are already in full swing, with biometric registration for exhibitor personnel ongoing until 21 August.“Exhibitors are urged to submit staff details promptly to avoid delays, with fingerprint capturing sessions scheduled in Windhoek and Ongwediva in early and mid-August,” Hidulika advised.Hidulika said construction of stands will be finalised by 21 August.Presidential openingPresident Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to officiate the opening ceremony on 24 August.“Exhibitors and visitors can expect tight security, with 160 professional security personnel, CCTV surveillance and a 24-hour police station on-site,” she noted.Gates will open daily at 09:00 for exhibitors and 10:00 for visitors, with extended hours on the official opening day.Exhibition halls will close at 21:00, while the entire fairground will be secured by midnight. Children’s entrance fees are N$15, as are vehicle fees. Adults will be charged N$20.Other key events include the OATF opening music bash on 22 August; the introduction of Miss OATF finalists on 23 August; a business symposium on 25 August; Oshiwambo cultural night on 26 August; the exhibitor awards ceremony on 28 August; the Miss OATF grand finale on 29 August; and a closing music event on 30 August.“Members of the public are invited to attend and are reminded that firearms and sharp objects will not be allowed on the premises. Enhanced security protocols will be in place to ensure a safe experience for all,” Hidulika stressed.She also thanked the event sponsors, including the Ongwediva Town Council, FNB Namibia, MTC, Nedbank and several others, whose support continues to make the event a success.- tuyeimo@nmh-hub.com.na

Stage set for annual Ongwediva Trade Fair

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-12

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Stage set for annual Ongwediva Trade Fair

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-12

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