Oshikango, once a thriving economic hub in the Ohangwena Region, is facing a slowdown in trade. Now, regional authorities are collaborating with the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) to launch a new economic revival initiative aimed at restoring investment, boosting business activity, and unlocking opportunities for local communities.
The border town, once vibrant with transport, tourism, and logistics activity, has in recent years seen a decline in business operations.
Several factors, including reduced local and foreign investment, are responsible for this downturn.
In response, Ohangwena Regional Leadership, in partnership with NIPDB, launched an economic revival initiative aimed at restoring the region's investor appeal and revitalising trade.
The initiative seeks to map out key economic sectors across the region, giving potential investors a clear view of viable opportunities capable of driving job creation, revenue growth, and long-term economic benefits for local communities.
Ohangwena, with its significant population of 337,729, offers a strong consumer base, which is a critical factor in attracting investors, as population size often determines market potential.
Speaking at the 14th Business Engagement Series in Eenhana, Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa stressed the importance of collaboration between central and regional government to unlock opportunities and ensure that economic gains benefit the people of the region.
"In the spirit of decisive boldness, I believe we have Oshikango, a town that once stood as the economic hub of the Ohangwena Region. Today, you would not think it is the same Oshikango of ten to fifteen years ago. Oshikango needs to be a strategic priority for us as a government. We must ask: How do we revive Oshikango? How do we bring commerce back? And how do we ensure that our people are the ones doing business in Oshikango and benefiting from it?"
Despite recent obstacles, including the devastating floods, Eenhana town Mayor, Omri-onn Kavandje, said they remain committed to improving service delivery, expanding opportunities for business, and investing in both infrastructure and sustainable local development.
"Business is the lifeblood of the community. Through enterprise, jobs are created, innovation is fostered, and opportunities are unlocked. Here in Eenhana, our traders, entrepreneurs, and investors have shown resilience and creativity even under challenging circumstances. You are the backbone of our local economy."
According to the latest Housing and Economic Census findings, accommodation and food services employ the highest number of people in the Ohangwena Region at 7,878 workers, followed by wholesale and retail with 4,833.