Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila says cultural exhibitions are vital for society as they play a huge role in preserving and promoting Namibian cultures, safeguarding people's identities, and at the same time attracting local and international tourism.
She made these remarks when she officially opened the Ehao Cultural Expo underway at Okahao.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila says cultural products are important contributors to business growth.
At the same time, indigenous technologies can serve as a basis for industrial development.
Government policies thus seek to support the research and development of indigenous knowledge, including the protection of indigenous copyrights.
"We encourage all Namibians to support the preservation, promotion, and development of our cultures, not only to help safeguard our cultural identity but also to ensure that the country optimises the benefits of our cultural and traditional heritage through generations."
Cultural expos such as Ehao also promote trade, encourage business networking, and increase business activities and economic growth.
It is thus at expositions that SMEs use the platform to showcase their products to increase clientele and establish contacts with established businesses, which can blossom into business relations.
She says potential SMEs should therefore be supported to create jobs, reduce poverty, and reduce inequalities in line with national development plans.
"Expos have proven to be an effective and efficient mechanism of business promotion at all levels of the community since it brings all areas of business under one roof in one day."
Omusati Governor Erginus Endjala also emphasised the importance of expositions in any given town or country.
"Expos facilitates networking opportunities by bringing together professionals, industrial leaders, and enthusiasts from various sectors. This encourages knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas."
122 exhibitors are showcasing their products and services at the second edition of the Ehao Cultural Expo.
The expo is being held under the theme "Connecting businesses towards creating the future".