The Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, is calling on all local authorities to organise exhibitions, as they are closely linked to key sectors of the economy. 

Iipumbu expressed pride in the growth of the Oshakati Totem Expo since its inception in 2012.

Iipumbu said these events provide local businesses with the opportunity to showcase their innovations, services, and goods, enabling them to network and collaborate with other industry players.

The minister added that the expo is a progressive effort and has encouraged the town to also invest in infrastructure to provide opportunities for trade and development.

"Events like this one showcase what a specific town can offer from the standpoint of culture, and also innovation and enterprise. I should explain that expos of this nature illustrate key potential activities for development. We have seen various innovative efforts that have tied in with the programme, including today's context of leveraging culture, and it's not only limited to the culture of this region, but it has expanded to other regions, as I have noted, such as the Zambezi and Omaheke regions."

This year's Totem Expo offers various cultural activities, keeping the visitors entertained throughout.

Governor Elia Irimari of Oshana urged the residents of the region to regularly attend the expo, emphasising the wealth of knowledge available. 

"I am just calling upon all Namibians based in Oshakati, Ongwediva and Ondangwa to please make your way to the expo, as we are not only showcasing our cultural talents, but it's also a learning exercise where you can pick up information to assist you." 

The town's mayor, Leonardo Hango, expressed satisfaction with the number of international exhibitors participating. 

"This is not only an Oshakati event, but it's a Namibian celebration, and your solidarity shows that together we can grow and uplift our communities."

The expo's 10th edition began on Friday and will continue until next Saturday at the Oshakati Independence Stadium.

It attracted 260 exhibitors.