The third edition of the Ondobe Annual Youth Expo held at the Sam Mwashipnadeka Business Park ended in the Ohangwena Region.

The seven-day event has proven to be a resounding success, nearly doubling its reach from the previous year. This year, 83 exhibitors showcased their products and services, a significant leap from the 45 recorded in 2024. 

Visitor traffic also saw a major boost, with over 2,000 visitors passing through the gates.

An exhibitor at the expo, Hage Shimuketa, expressed his satisfaction with the expo. "I am impressed because last year I was here, and I am seeing some improvements. It's a good platform for us young entrepreneurs to grow, and also for the management team to improve and grow from wherever they've been to where they have to be."

Beyond the sales and the networking, the expo centred on the theme of "Unity and Progress". 

The expo's chairperson, Shapwa Kaulinge, highlighted that the event's primary goal is to reshape the economic outlook of the region's youth.

"It's not just about food; it's not about beverages; it's about the mind. The event aims to instill a business mindset among the youth. We are seeing progress, and we are seeing unity among the community toward the project."

For first-time exhibitors, the expo served as an intensive learning exercise in business management. 

Meyameno Haufiku, another exhibitor at the expo, explained that many walked away with more than just profit but with a newfound sense of professional and financial discipline.

"It has been a learning process. It is helping to develop the youth by teaching them how to engage with one another in a business context. You learn how to sell, you make a profit, and it teaches us to differentiate between capital and profit. It's simple, but it's not that simple.

However, the success was met with a clear call for better infrastructure. 

Both visitors and traders highlighted the urgent need for a stable electricity supply and permanent structures to replace the temporary tents and gazebos. 

Kaulinge assured them that these concerns are at the top of next year's agenda.

"Key challenges remain; we need a permanent structure. We are committed to ensuring they are happy, and we deliver on our side. In terms of the structure, in terms of water and electricity supply, they should not worry."