The Ministry of International Relations and Trade (MIRT) has reiterated its resolve to strengthen economic diplomacy and ensure small and medium enterprises' access to external markets.
The commitment was made by Minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi at the official opening of the 13th edition of the Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition.
Ashipala-Musavyi stated small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the economy, as they create jobs, support families, sustain communities and drive innovation.
She said the government fully recognises that connecting local trade to Africa and the world is an inspiration.
"Through bilateral and multilateral cooperation, trade agreements, export promotion initiatives and trade and investment facilitation, the ministry is committed to ensuring that Namibian producers and service providers, including those from the Oshana Region, can compete with confidence, locally and on the continental and global stage."
The ministry is mandated to promote Namibia's trade interests abroad and support a conducive environment for enterprises' growth, market access, and inclusive development at home.
"Let me reiterate that the Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition is not just a display of products. It is a demonstration of the greatness of every entrepreneur and of Namibia as a whole. Every exhibition stand you visit today represents determination, creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit that drives national progress."
The exhibition, which began on 24 April and will conclude on the 2nd of May.
Organised by the Ondangwa Town Council, the event has grown steadily over the years, and what started as a local initiative is now being developed into an international trading platform.
This year's exhibition has attracted 210 exhibitors, including participants from Tanzania, Kenya, and Zambia.
Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge called on exhibitors to explore new business opportunities.
"As a region, we remain committed to advancing industrialisation, value addition, and enterprise development. Ondangwa, together with Oshakati and Ongwediva, continues to form the backbone of our economic growth corridor, and platforms such as this trade fair are essential for unlocking that potential."
The patron of the trade fair, Omukwaniilwa of Ondonga Traditional Authority, Fillemon Nangolo, called on the exhibitors to network and form joint ventures.