Trade beyond Namibia, VP tells business sector

Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah urged Namibian businesspeople to familiarise themselves with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which Namibia is part of, in order to trade beyond the country’s borders.She said the involvement of businesspeople will ensure that the investment made by the government does not go to waste, adding that they will get to enjoy the benefits of trading beyond Namibian borders at an affordable rate.She was speaking at the official opening of the 23rd edition of the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair, which is being held under the theme ‘Bridging tradition and innovation’.Nandi-Ndaitwah said the industrialisation and trade ministry provided technical support, while the international relations ministry provided diplomatic support in the AfCFTA negotiation.“It is therefore up to Namibian businesspeople not to allow our investment to be in vain. And that is why we are calling you to educate yourself and familiarise yourselves with the AfCFTA so that Namibia can reap the investment that we have put in this,” she said.“We not only spent money for travelling, but a lot of energy went into those negotiation rooms. It was not an easy task and we want value to be gained by the Namibian people,” the vice-president stressed.Innovation is criticalMeanwhile, Nandi-Ndaitwah used the platform to urge businesspeople to adopt the trade fair’s theme, saying it demonstrates a clear departure from the ordinary way of conducting business to the new culture of innovation.She said change and innovation are critical enabling factors for businesses to become competitive in the local, regional and international markets.“For our businesses to grow and expand, particularly our small and medium enterprises, they should embrace innovation. Moreover, for our local businesses to participate successfully in the regional and global economy, they are required to adopt innovative, smart and appropriate technologies that put them on par with their counterparts internationally,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.According to Oshana governor Elia Irimari, the trade fair has grown remarkably over the years, becoming a dynamic platform where tradition meets innovation.He said the event is a celebration of Namibia’s rich cultural heritage and a testament to its people’s forward-thinking spirit.“It provides an invaluable opportunity for businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators to showcase their products, exchange ideas and forge partnerships which can drive economic growth,” he said.A total of 457 exhibitors are participating in the fair this year, of which 17 are from international markets. The event draws to a close on 31 August.– tuyeimo@namibiansun.com

Trade beyond Namibia, VP tells business sector

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-28

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Trade beyond Namibia, VP tells business sector

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-28

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