Limpopo premier strengthens cultural and trade ties with Namibia

By Akani Nkuna and Johnathan Paoli

Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba has called for deeper cultural and economic ties between South Africa and Namibia, describing the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) as more than an exhibition of goods and services, but a vital platform for regional cooperation and shared prosperity.

Leading a provincial delegation on a working visit to Namibia, Ramathuba said the mission was guided by the 2018 twinning agreement between Limpopo and Namibia’s four northern regions—Oshana, Omusati, Ohangwena and Oshikoto—and was in direct response to an invitation from Oshana Region Governor Hofni Lipinge.

“The changing trade patterns across the globe compel us to strengthen regional partnerships. Our annual gathering is about people-to-people relations, knowledge exchange, and showcasing our cultural and agricultural products,” Ramathuba said.

“We must reflect on our shared resources—minerals, marula fruit, and our intertwined histories—and explore avenues for value addition that will boost local economies through beneficiation