Windhoek: The strong turnout at the 18th Okakarara Annual Trade Fair has energised both local and international vendors, with exhibitors reporting steady sales and high engagement since the event opened on Monday.
According to Namibia Press Agency, local and international exhibitors from Tanzania, Ghana, and Nigeria expressed similar sentiments, saying large crowds have visited their stalls. The trade fair, which concludes on Saturday, has been a significant event for both vendors and visitors. Okakarara Trade Fair Society chairperson, Helga Humbu, reported that 127 exhibitors are participating this year, including 63 corporates, 52 small and medium-sized businesses, five kiddies' stalls, four government ministries, and three international exhibitors.
Elsie Tjavara, a traditional clothing manufacturer from Otumborombonga village, noted successful business interactions with about 50 to 70 people visiting her stall inside the Chief Kuaima Riruako Hall daily. She expressed her enthusiasm about returning in 2027 due to the impressive sales volume achieved in a short time.
Rejoice Maharero from the NamVoc Vocational Training Institution highlighted the fair's impact on education, with nearly 2,000 application forms distributed since the event's inception on Monday.
Minister in the Presidency, Dr. Charles Mubita, officially opened the fair on Thursday afternoon, commending its growth and organisation. He described the Okakarara Annual Trade Fair as one of the best-organized and most attended trade fairs in the country. Founded in 2006, the fair has become a symbol of empowerment, particularly for livestock farmers from the Otjozondjupa and Omaheke regions.
Governor John ||Khamuseb expressed satisfaction with the event, emphasizing its role in creating a vibrant networking platform for small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs). Beyond trade, the fair generated 60 temporary local jobs in sectors such as security, logistics, sanitation, and event management. The fair will conclude with the Miss Okakarara beauty pageant on Friday evening and a live music showcase on Saturday.