OATF's hybrid form praised

After a two-year hiatus, the return of the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) was applauded by, among others, President Hage Geingob.In a speech read by vice-president Nangolo Mbumba on behalf of Geingob during the official opening of the trade fair on Sunday, the president said the new hybrid format adopted by the trade fair - consisting of a conventional exhibition combined with a virtual platform - demonstrates a commitment towards technological innovation.At a time when Namibia faces numerous challenges, nationally and internationally, it is time to think outside of the box, the president said."The answer is to work smarter, and that is where smart economies and the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) come in. As we continue to strive towards the attainment of our developmental objectives, it is pertinent that government and the private sector hold hands and work in tandem in order to promote technological transformation in the local economy and work on ways to combine digital transformation with innovation and talent competitiveness to improve Namibia’s readiness for the 4IR," he said.RecoveryMTC’s managing director, Licky Erastus, said for the past two years, the economy has been hard hit by the pandemic."However, the pandemic provided us with an opportunity to embrace a new paradigm with renewed confidence. We are re-envisioning a society that is digitally driven and resource efficient, which in turn will translate into an economic system that is fairer, greener, circular, and more sustainable," he said.The trade fair is taking place under the theme ‘Gearing towards smart economy’.Oshana governor Elia Irimari said he is proud that the trade fair has grown into an international trade exhibition that is truly engaging and promotes economic activities not just in Namibia, but all over the world."I am also glad to note that this year, OATF provides for virtual exhibition platforms, which is crucial for wider global exhibitors’ participation and, at the same time, for accelerating Namibia’s economic growth through the promotion of local products and services," he said. tuyeimo@namibiansun.com

OATF's hybrid form praised

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-02

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OATF's hybrid form praised

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-02

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