Oshakati Totem Expo draws 150 exhibitors

The Oshakati Totem Expo 2026 opened on Friday, bringing together culture, business, tourism and community development under the theme ‘Strengthening Ties Through Culture’.

The annual event was officially launched at the Oshakati Independence Stadium by Vice President Lucia Witbooi.

A total of 150 exhibitors are showcasing services and wares across agriculture, retail, manufacturing, telecommunications, financial services, tourism, government institutions, creative industries and small and medium enterprises.

Oshakati mayor Leonard Hango said the event has evolved into a platform that promotes tourism, entrepreneurship, youth empowerment and community development.

He also highlighted council’s efforts to ensure inclusivity through its collaboration with the National Disability Council of Namibia, enabling persons living with disabilities to participate in this year’s expo.

“Meaningful development can only be achieved when all members of society are given the opportunity to participate and contribute,” Hango said.

National development

Witbooi commended the continued growth of the expo, describing it as an important platform for cultural preservation, social cohesion and economic participation.

She also welcomed plans to establish a permanent Totem Expo and Exhibition Centre in Oshakati.

She said a dedicated exhibition centre would create year-round opportunities for trade exhibitions, conferences, investment forums, cultural festivals, youth programmes and other economic development initiatives.

Witbooi encouraged stronger collaboration between government, local authorities, traditional leaders, the private sector and communities to ensure that the expo continues contributing to national development.

The expo, which runs until 6 June, features a variety of activities, including cultural competitions, sporting events, youth empowerment programmes, business engagements, beauty pageants, exhibitions and entertainment.