Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi said the region's economic ambitions must contribute to Namibia's broader development agenda, including the objectives of the Sixth National Development Plan and Vision 2030.
Kathindi made these remarks at the official opening of the Tsumeb Copper Festival 2026, where he said the region must prioritize a productive, inclusive, and diversified economy, supported by investment, innovation, skills development, and meaningful employment.
Governor Kathindi stressed that the Tsumeb Copper Festival provides a practical opportunity to advance these ambitions by bringing together the people and institutions capable of turning ideas into actions.
"Economic development is a shared responsibility. Government must create an enabling environment. Businesses must invest and innovate, financial institutions must support viable enterprises, and communities must participate actively in shaping the economic future."
Kathindi also called on the tourism, agriculture, and mining sectors to create opportunities for young people and small businesses to retain value and have access to markets.
"We must therefore create an environment in which local entrepreneurs can grow into sustainable businesses capable of competing in a wider market. I call on large companies, public institutions, and established businesses to explore opportunities for local procurement, mentorship, skills transfer, and enterprise development."
Tsumeb Mayor Lichen Classen on her part, reiterated that the Copper Festival is now a celebrated calendar marketing platform for the council.
"The Tsumeb Copper Festival is more than an annual celebration. It is a platform for promoting investment, supporting local enterprises, connecting businesses with markets, and creating opportunities for our people. The success of this festival must therefore be measured not only by attendance and entertainment but also by the business relationships established, customers reached, and opportunities created."
As one of the main sponsors of the Tsumeb Copper Festival, Sinomine Tsumeb Community Trust Administration Manager Medusalem Nandjebo had this to say:
"We demonstrate this through our ongoing community investment, local job creation, and our shared pride in this location. Our focus today is separate from our industrial production. We are here to focus on people, championing our learners, investing in the community, and promoting sustainable livelihoods."
The week-long trade fair, which concludes on 31 October, is held under the theme "Copper sparks, Tsumeb shines."