Vice President Lucia Witbooi considers the strategic location of Ondangwa a gateway to creating a broader trade and regional value chain. 

Witbooi made the remarks during the fundraising gala dinner, which saw close to N$900,000 raised in pledges to host the Ondangwa Industrial and Trade Exhibition.

Witbooi says that the Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition plays a crucial role in realising the trade sector. 

She emphasised the necessity of accelerating economic development and supporting women in micro-, small-, and medium enterprises.

Witbooi commended the Ondangwa Town Council for its efforts to grow businesses through the exhibition.

"Over the years, the Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition (OTIE) has evolved into an important platform for promoting entrepreneurship, stimulating trade, and encouraging innovation among businesses, particularly our micro, small, and medium enterprises. The town's vision is 'to become a hub for industrialisation and sustainable development', which is both ambitious and achievable."

The Vice President said stimulating economic development is one of the key priority areas for the government to ensure a prosperous nation.

"The theme for this year's exhibition, 'Connecting Local Trade to the World', reflects the Eighth Administration's commitment to export diversification, expanding market access, and strengthening regional and global value chains. Furthermore, the initiative aligns with Namibia's Vision 2030, which envisions a prosperous and industrialised nation where economic opportunities are expanded and inclusive development is realised."

She called on the various companies and businesses to support the exhibition by pledging financial support for the fair. 

Witbooi also elaborated on means to accelerate economic diversification, support entrepreneurship and expand industrial capacity as contained in NDP6. 

She stressed the importance of SMEs' contribution to job creation.