Editor's Note

Covid-19 has shaken the global economy to its core and significantly disrupted social and economic systems around the world.In Namibia, the virus has caused a significant economic downturn, closed the doors of businesses, whether big or small, and led to job losses for thousands of Namibians. In addition to more unemployment, the pandemic has had far-reaching consequences in many areas of daily life.It also led to the cancellation of many social events on the Namibian events calendar, including the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF), which was put on hold for two years.Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of any economy, and with the ripple effect of Covid-19, their protection is more important than ever before.Not only are small businesses, such as street vendors, sighing with relief at the return of the trade fairs – established businesswomen and men are applauding the fair's return as well. For trading to take place, money needs to circulate in the economy. Namibian Sun sat down and chatted with the businesspeople in the north about the impact of the absence of this significant trade show and what its revival means to them.The fundamental goal of hosting the OATF is for the town to create opportunities that will facilitate trade and business linkages between indigenous market entrepreneurs, not only in Ongwediva, but for the entire northern region, with foreign business personalities.The trade fair will further serve as an opportunity to showcase and promote the products and services of SMEs in addition to creating a forum for smart partnerships with established corporate entities.Enjoy this read.Mask up, sanitise and social distance.Yours,Tuyeimo Haidula

Editor's Note

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-09

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Editor's Note

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-09

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