Photo: Annakleta Haikera
By: Annakleta Haikera
The Rundu Annual Trade Fair has recorded a sharp increase in exhibitor participation, with 216 exhibitors registering on opening day on Friday, 23 October.
More small to medium businesses are taking advantage of the annual event to showcase their products and services in Kavango East Region.
The figure represents an increase of 48 exhibitors compared with the 168 recorded in 2025, and 83 more than the 133 recorded in 2024.
The trade fair, taking place at the Rundu Trade Fair Centre in the Kavango East Region, runs until Saturday, 31 October, providing businesses with a platform to reach new customers, promote their products and explore potential business partnerships.
Johannes Kudumo, vice chairperson of the Rundu Trade Fair Committee, said the growing number of exhibitors shows that businesses are benefiting from the event by attracting customers and clients.
Exhibitors include government ministries, banks, media companies and service providers such as the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) and the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA), which assist entrepreneurs with tax matters, business registration and documentation.
Among the exhibitors is Maria Ndango, who is selling toys at a kiddies’ store, offering products aimed at children and families visiting the fair.
Thomas Shikongo is also using the platform to sell leather bags, allowing visitors to explore his products while promoting his business to potential customers.
Their participation reflects the variety of products available at the fair, where entrepreneurs and established businesses can introduce their offerings to a wider market.
The event’s fundraising gala dinner, held on 3 October, raised approximately N$1.3 million in cash and in-kind contributions, compared with N$552,900 in 2025 and more than N$900,000 in 2024. The amount excludes a separate N$3 million commitment by Namibia Berries towards the construction of a community hostel in the Mukwe Constituency.
This year’s activities also include a meril tournament, which started on Friday at Dr Romanus Kampungu, with teams competing for trophies and other prizes.
The official opening is scheduled for Monday, 26 October, beginning with a parade at 07h00 from the Rundu Town Council administration block to the trade fair venue.
The fair will continue until 31 October, bringing together businesses, institutions and visitors to
promote entrepreneurship, investment and economic activity in the Kavango East Region.
annakletahaikera@eaglefm.com.na
