President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says the preservation of culture automatically preserves identity, and when it's promoted, it empowers the nation.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, at the official opening of the 4th edition at Okahao in the Omusati Region, reiterated that the Ehao Cultural Expo continues to grow as a powerful tool for socio-economic transformation in the region and beyond.
The President said the cultural and developmental excellence exhibited at the Expo is commendable, as it promotes both culture and business while providing an abundance of opportunities across the town and beyond.
Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah reiterated that the expo is a celebration of culture and unity while reviving and promoting the preservation of various cultural norms and practices for future generations.
Her speech was read on her behalf by Justice Minister Wise Immanuel.
"Cultural tourism offers such a unique and powerful avenue—one that brands heritage preservation with economic opportunity. Our rich traditions, languages, art, music, and customs are more than just symbols of identity; they are indeed economic assets. They are the seeds from which we can grow jobs, businesses, and tourism-driven prosperity."
The Omusati governor called on the region to work in unison when planning expos to avoid clashes, as is the case with the Ehao Expo and Olufuko Festival.
"I am well aware that today we are in Ehao while others are in Olufuko. I am calling upon our mayors to work together so that we do not have key expos happening in the region at once because both customers and exhibitors now have to split themselves between the two expos."
Ongandjera Traditional Authority's Omukwaniilwa Johannes Mupiya says championing culture through economic activities remains central in ensuring that future generations remain in touch with their roots.
"By hosting this expo, we create a platform that assists in not only preserving culture but also ensuring that our people have a platform for trade, which will also grow the economy of the town and beyond its boundaries."
The Ehao Expo, which ends on Saturday, is being held under the theme: unlocking cultural tourism and business potential.