Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa praised the ongoing Oshakati Totem Expo for fostering trade, business partnerships, and cultural exchange.

The recent gala dinner raised N$843,000 towards the nine-day event scheduled for May.

In a message read by Deputy Minister Evelyn Nawatises-Taayele, Sankwasa said:
“The Oshakati Totem Expo provides an excellent platform to stimulate economic activities whilst celebrating who we are as a nation. The expo strengthens our social cohesion as a nation and encourages intergenerational learning it gives our young people a place to see themselves not separated from tradition but as heirs to a rich and meaningful heritage.”

Oshakati Mayor Leonard Hango reiterated the council’s commitment:
“Today the totem expo is no longer just a cultural gathering. It is a growing platform for economic participation, youth empowerment, cultural exchange and local enterprise development. As Oshakati town council we remain committed to building a town that is inclusive, responsive and people centred.”

Erastus Chico Shapumba, speaking for the business community, said:
“Businesses remain the backbone of the country's economy and the presence of expos enables them to make profit and interact with other businesses.”