Deputy Prime Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on the Okakarara Trade Fair Society to continue developing platforms for SMEs to network, market, and showcase locally produced goods.

Nandi-Ndaitwah's remarks were shared on her behalf by Otjozondjupa Governor James Uerikua during the Okakarara Trade Fair fundraising dinner.

Nandi-Ndaitwah says Okakarara offers remarkable cultural, economic, and historical traits, and the fair is a great platform to drive commercial prospects and strengthen the economic sector.

"The driving forces behind ensuring a trustworthy gauge of economic success for the trade fair are the organisers, contributors, and participants from several regions who are expected to attend the event. History has shown that the Okakarara Trade Fair attracted foreign exhibitors from many nations, including, to name but a few, Tanzania, Kenya, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and India."

A trade fair should be a platform to promote innovation, agricultural businesses, and trade.

"We want to make sure that more farmers have access to new and improved technology and are embracing a move from subsistence farming to agribusiness in order to improve the situation with regard to food security and reduce poverty in this region."

Okakarara Mayor Asnath Kavetuna Jazukuka spoke at the event.

"Okakarara Trade Fair has made a significant impact on the livelihood of the residents of Okakarara and Namibia in general. It is the catalyst for economic activity within and around the constituency. It drives business opportunities by allowing people to explore linkages, exhibit their products, and meet strategic business partners. Our gathering here is just a token of appreciation for those of you who have constantly supported our noble cause of SME development for our residents and constituency at large."

The fundraising dinner collected about N$120,000 to be used towards the hosting of the 15th annual trade fair scheduled to take place from the 4th to the 10th of next month.