The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) fundraising gala dinner has raised N$2,1 million to host its 25th fair anniversary.

This is an increase from last year's gala dinner, which raised N$1,6 million.

Among the contributors, MTC pledged the highest amount of N$350,000, with First Nation Bank N$200,000 and Bank Windhoek N$100,000.

In the in-kind category, the NBC made the largest contribution of N$600,000 and Lithon Project Consultants, a local consulting engineering company, N$350,000.

The funds raised will support the hosting of the 2026 trade fair as it celebrates its 25 years of exhibition excellence and promoting business growth.

Ongwediva Mayor Naemi Amuthenu said the silver jubilee represents a vision built on hard work, courage, strong partnerships, and the belief that Ongwediva could become more than just a town.

“As we celebrate this journey, we must also honour all who contributed to building it. We pay tribute to the founders, sponsors, exhibitors, stakeholders, and every person who have played a role in sustaining this dream. The success of OATF belongs to all of you.”

She said the town has grown into a place of opportunity, enterprise, and shared progress.

The Chief Executive Officer of O&L Group, Sven Thieme, underscored that the OATF is a platform that drives entrepreneurship, investment, and inclusive economic growth.

In a speech delivered on his behalf, Thieme said the strength of the trade fair lies in its ability to bring together entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporations, government institutions, development partners, and international investors on one shared platform.

“Twenty-six years ago, the late Founding President Sam Nujoma officially opened the trade fair. His purpose was straightforward: to introduce a new, proclaimed northern town to the business community, and today that vision has grown into one of Namibia's premier business platforms. That growth didn't come by accident; it happened because people believe in the vision and are working consistently to make it a reality.”