Oshana lights up with a spectacular edition of the Ongwediva trade fair

The streets of Ongwediva are buzzing with life. Music drifts from exhibition halls, the aroma of grilled kapana fills the air, and children tug at their parents’ hands to visit the kiddies’ corners.This is the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) – a place where business meets culture and where Namibia’s north shines brightest.At the opening of the 24th edition on 24 August, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah described the trade fair as more than just an exhibition. With 70% of stalls run by women and 60% by youth, she said OATF embodies empowerment. “These are not just figures. They show how the trade fair is shaping our economic future,” she told an enthusiastic crowd.The president toured the exhibition stalls on Sunday, delighting participants. For Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge, the fair is proof that the region is where “culture, enterprise and innovation converge.” This year’s highlight was the participation of the Limpopo Province, led by Premier Phophi Ramathuba, which added a continental flair to Namibia’s biggest marketplace.Something for everyone The aroma of sizzling fish filled the air at the trade fair as the Namibia Fish Consumption Promotion Trust (NFCPT) hosted its much-anticipated culinary showdown. CEO Victor Pea officially launched the Flames and Fame cook-off competition at the Trust’s stall, drawing curious visitors eager to see top executives trade boardrooms for braai stands. The contest brought fun, flavour and a fresh twist to OATF’s bustling programme.But beyond the excitement of food and festivities, visitors were reminded to stay vigilant. With scammers becoming increasingly sophisticated, Mobile Telecommunications Ltd (MTC) used the fair as a platform to raise awareness. Speaking at a media briefing, spokesperson John Ekongo urged the public never to share personal information with unknown callers.“The only official number MTC uses is 081 888 2000,” he stressed, warning that any other call claiming to be from the company is likely a scam.Ekongo advised victims to immediately report incidents to the police to allow proper investigation. “It’s essential to safeguard yourself, both online and offline,” he said, reminding Namibians that fraudsters often exploit details people post on social media.The trade fair ended on Saturday. PHOTOS: TUYEIMO HAIDULA

Oshana lights up with a spectacular edition of the Ongwediva trade fair

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-02

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Oshana lights up with a spectacular edition of the Ongwediva trade fair

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-02

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