By: Loise Shiimi
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced her intention to appoint three task forces this week, focused on economic recovery, health, and housing, as part of the Namibia Public Private Forum (NPPF).
This initiative was committed during the launch of the NPPF on 23 October 2025, which is set to convene annually.
The President made this announcement during the official opening of the 18th Helao Nafidi Business Expo on Saturday.
“We need the private sector as much as the private sector needs the government. The NPPF aims to create a formal platform for the government and the private sector to engage, fostering an appreciation of each other’s responsibilities in national development and economic progress. Our goal is to grow the economy, create jobs, and lift our citizens out of poverty, ensuring shared prosperity,” she stated.
She also stressed that government makes adjustments to establish a conducive environment for the private sector, which in turn is expected to address the government’s priority areas for social and economic development.
Regarding the forum’s outcomes, Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed optimism about the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector for the benefit of the people, hoping for even better organisation and results in the coming year.
This year’s Business Expo, themed ‘Ignite the Future: Unearthing Youth Potential and Innovation at the Heart of Helao Nafidi – Our Border Town, a Hidden Treasure,’ highlights the strategic position of Helao Nafidi as a gateway to neighbouring Angola.
“This location offers tremendous potential for cross-border trade and cooperation. The Expo is, therefore, a unique opportunity to strengthen business relationships and promote regional growth through the movement of people, goods, services, and knowledge,” noted the President.
She also pointed out some of the numerous benefits Namibia can derive from its neighbouring countries, and called for enhanced cooperation along all borders, urging for full engagement in this pursuit, both in word and action.
Regarding the path to sustainable development, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised that such development is dependent on how effectively entrepreneurs and small businesses are empowered.
“This Expo is not merely a social event; it is a platform for collaboration, learning, and growth. It is a space where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are forged, and opportunities are unlocked. I encourage all exhibitors and visitors to take something valuable away from this experience,” she remarked.
Additionally, she encouraged organisers to benchmark against other trade fairs across the country and explore innovative strategies to revitalise and strengthen the Expo in the years to come.
“To the business community and investors, I urge you to invest in the socio-economic development of this town. Together, let us build a stronger, more inclusive economy that leaves no Namibian behind,” she added.
Helao Nafidi mayor, Darius Shaalukeni, spoke to the significance of the Expo, stating that it exemplifies what can be achieved when the business community, government, and citizens come together to pursue common objectives.
“It is a space where ideas flourish, conversations lead to partnerships, and dreams transform into enterprises that create jobs and change lives,” he noted.
He indicated that the Helao Nafidi Business Expo plays a crucial role in advancing the local economy by providing a valuable platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their talents, expand their networks, and attract new opportunities, while also attracting regional and national investors to the vast potential within the community.
“Events like this are essential for building stronger trade connections, stimulating investment, and inspiring innovation – all of which contribute to job creation, strengthen our economy, and ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of Helao Nafidi,” he stated.
The Expo ran from 31 October to 02 November 2025.
