The Daures Agricultural Show and SME Expo opened its doors to the public, with an emphasis on the need to develop rural areas.

The maiden Daures Agricultural Show and SME Expo is underway at Okombahe Settlement, 60 kilometres from Omaruru.

The event, organised by the Erongo Regional Council, is aimed at creating a networking and exhibition platform for small-scale farmers and SMEs.

"Our plan is to create opportunities for each constituency in Erongo Region, and there are seven of them, so this is our drive. Our presence in the Daures Constituency this week is to start a developmental trajectory that we hope will bring back affirmed smiles to the faces of our residents," said Chief Regional Officer, Sam Ntelamo.

Other speakers said the expo is a reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is not confined to urban areas but can thrive in rural areas as well.

The Gaob of the !Oe-ǂGan Traditional Authority, Immanuel |Gaseb, applauded the initiative and called on the community to unite.

"The community should not only blame me; you must also give me advice daily so that I can serve you within my capacity. And if I happen to fail to implement the advice you give me, then you have every right to blame me for failure. Our area has been suffering for a long time, and I have thoroughly listened to complaints on the radio that we don't hold community meetings often. Despite that, let's hold hands and move forward to overcome our challenges."

Twenty exhibitors are showcasing their products and services at the event.