PM calls for support of Totem Expo

Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has called on the private sector, development partners and citizens across Namibia to support the Oshakati Totem Expo.Ngurare described the expo as a national treasure that fosters cultural preservation, economic empowerment and youth development.Speaking at a fundraising gala dinner for the 13th edition of the expo – which is themed ‘Strengthening ties through culture’ – Ngurare commended the Oshakati Town Council for its dedication to community development. Additionally, the prime minister urged the central government to increase funding to support the council’s formalisation of informal settlements.He highlighted the council’s efforts in establishing reception areas for flood-affected communities and praised the overall energy and commitment demonstrated by the local authority. “I am encouraged by this energy on the part of the local authority,” he said.Ngurare also welcomed the presence of other local authorities at the event, saying their participation reflects good collaboration and an opportunity for benchmarking best practices. He urged them to work together and remain committed to serving their communities.The expo, he said, is not just an event but a platform where “culture becomes an engine of economic empowerment", connecting Namibia’s rich traditions with commerce, innovation and inclusive development.He praised the diversity of participants, from small-scale farmers and SMEs to cultural performers and large businesses, noting that the expo provides visibility, voice and value for all. He also encouraged more opportunities for youth entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations, such as those introduced at the Oshana Regional Council.“Investment in young people must be deliberate,” Ngurare stated, adding that initiatives like the youth development fund must support capacity-building among youth, especially within local authorities.Building strong foundationsHe emphasised that initiatives like the expo align with national strategic goals, particularly in economic diversification, youth employment and cultural tourism.He stressed that successful expos require more than vision – they demand financial support for infrastructure, logistics, vendor accommodation and outreach. “Tonight’s gala dinner is not merely ceremonial, it is foundational,” he said.Oshakati mayor Leonard Hango said the Totem Expo has grown since its launch in 2012 to become one of the north’s flagship cultural and trade events.He said the event brings together communities, businesses and institutions to celebrate their roots while looking to the future. “The expo is not only a cultural display but also an economic platform. It creates space for local entrepreneurs, SMEs, artists and youth to showcase their talents and products," the mayor said."It facilitates dialogue between tradition and innovation and, through events like tonight’s gala, it mobilises resources to ensure the success and sustainability of the expo for years to come,” he said.A total of N$804 140 was raised to host the expo, including pledges, in-kind contributions and proceeds from the sale of gala dinner tables.The top three contributors were the Rani Group of Companies, which pledged N$60 000, followed by Standard Bank Namibia with N$50 000 and Oshakati Premier Electric with N$25 000.

PM calls for support of Totem Expo

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-09

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PM calls for support of Totem Expo

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-09

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