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 and sustainable practices.”
She linked the visit to South Africa’s Women’s Month, praising Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership as an inspiration to women across the continent.
“Having you as President is not a favour from anyone. You fought, you paved the way, and you continue to lead us. The spirits of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Mama Lillian Ngoyi and Mama Charlotte Maxeke rest peacefully knowing women are at the forefront of building a new Africa,” she said.
Ramathuba was accompanied by Limpopo MECs Tshitereke Matibe (Economic Development, Environment and Tourism) and Nakedi Kekana (Agriculture and Rural Development), along with 10 business leaders from the agro-processing, textiles, hospitality and tourism sectors.
She proposed enhanced air connectivity between Polokwane International Airport and Namibia’s Andimba Toivo Ya Toivo Airport to stimulate mobility and commerce, while urging greater collaboration in agriculture, transport and beneficiation.
The 24th edition of the OATF was officially opened on Sunday by President Nandi-Ndaitwah, who welcomed the Limpopo delegation as a tangible expression of the Bi-National Commission agreement between South Africa and Namibia.
She noted that since its inception in 2000, the fair had grown into a flagship event for enterprise development, investment, and innovation.
“This Trade Fair contributes to the Economic Growth, Transformation and Resilience Pillar of our Sixth National Development Plan, particularly on youth employment, local value addition and digital transformation,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
She highlighted that 70% of exhibitors this year are women and 60% youth, calling it “real empowerment, shaping our economic future.”
The nine-day fair, themed “Innovate – Connect – Prosper”, has drawn 450 exhibitors, including 26 international participants from across Africa and beyond, with first-time entrants in aviation and digital innovation.
Countries represented include Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Indonesia, Botswana and South Africa.
This year’s edition also introduces expanded conferencing opportunities for both exhibitors and non-exhibitors, B2B matchmaking sessions with Limpopo counterparts, and strengthened security measures including CCTV surveillance and a dedicated on-site police charge office.
According to OATF chairperson Rebekka Hidulika, highlights of the event include cultural showcases, symposiums, the Miss OATF grand finale, cultural nights and an exhibitor awards ceremony.
She thanked sponsors including the Ongwediva Town Council, FNB Namibia, MTC and Nedbank for their support.
Ramathuba urged that the spirit of solidarity forged in the struggle against colonialism and apartheid should now be channelled into building stronger economic and trade partnerships across the continent.
“While intra-regional trade within SADC stands at only 15%, we must take inspiration from global examples like the EU and ASEAN, where trade exceeds 50%. Let us rise to this challenge, leveraging our diverse resources and cooperation to foster empowerment,” she said.
The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair runs until 30 August, showcasing regional and international trade, culture, and innovation under the banner of shared African prosperity.
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