The Ministries of International Relations and Trade and Industries, Mines, and Energy hosted the 12th session of the Ministerial Business Engagement.

The event that took place in Omuthyia in the Oshikoto Region served as a platform for government and business leaders to engage in open dialogue to strengthen the foundation of economic growth.

 The event sought to raise awareness about the opportunities available in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and ensure their effective implementation.

The Mayor of Omuthiya, Beata Nashongo, highlighted the region's rich natural beauty, cultural diversity, agricultural potential and untapped business opportunities.

She further added that the engagement provided an excellent platform to share ideas, address challenges and explore investment opportunities.

"The strategic collaboration between government, the private sector and the local economy is the key to unlocking this potential and driving sustainable economic growth. I am informed that the collaboration of these two ministries is meant to create increased market access and support productive diversification for businesses to thrive and compete in the regional, continental and global markets."

The Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, explained that the aim is to identify opportunities and promote inclusive economic development.

"We are in the Oshikoto Region to see how we can optimise businesses in this region for us to be engaging. Because when you talk about the African Continental Free Trade Area, it's two-way traffic. If we don't produce, if we don't manufacture, if we don't create services, they will come here, they will bring their products, and there is nothing wrong with that because the African Continental Free Trade Area opens the way for them. That's why we need to produce so we can also access their markets."

The minister further urged entrepreneurs to not be in their comfort zone but to make use of the available resources to tap into foreign markets.