By: Annakleta Haikera
Local businesses are expecting a significant economic influx from the thousands of visitors attending the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Games Kavango East Region this week.
The games will be held from 2-4 July 2026 in Rundu.
Guesthouse and bar owner, Agripa Haindongo, told The Villager that the games are expected to bring millions of dollars into Rundu’s economy, benefitting accommodation establishments, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, fuel stations, taxis and other local businesses.
He estimated that the games could inject nearly N$10 million into the local economy over the three-day period.
“As business people with establishments such as bars and accommodation facilities, things are moving. People are still looking for accommodation even now. I believe these SOE Games will leave close to N$10 million for business people in just the few days they are here,” he said.
Haindongo said the high demand for accommodation demonstrates the importance of hosting major national events in Rundu.
He noted that while the town would still need more accommodation and other infrastructure as it grows, attracting more events would also help stimulate local businesses throughout the year.
“We should take advantage of this opportunity and make money. These games bring thousands of people to our town, and every business has a chance to benefit. After the SOE Games, we will also host the Ministry of Defence Games, which will again bring visitors from across Namibia,” he stated.
Moreover, he encouraged residents to make visitors feel welcome and to ensure they leave with a positive impression of Rundu.
“My prayer is that visitors should feel at home. We don’t want incidents where visitors are robbed or attacked. If people enjoy their stay and feel safe, they will want to come back and recommend Rundu to others. They are bringing business to our town, so we should treat them with extra care,” Haindongo expressed.
Several lodge owners indicated that rooms have been reserved well in advance by participating state-owned enterprises, while others said they expect walk-in guests during the three-day sporting event.
One lodge owner, who requested anonymity, told The Villager that his establishment, located about 15 kilometres outside Rundu, had been fully booked ahead of the games, demonstrating that businesses across the area are benefitting from the event.
Restaurant operators, taxi drivers and informal traders also anticipate higher customer numbers as athletes, officials and supporters spend time in the town.
Taxi driver Martin Sikongo welcomed the decision to host the games in Rundu, saying major events of this nature help stimulate the local economy by increasing demand for local services.
More than 50 public enterprises marched through the streets of Rundu on Thursday to officially mark the opening of the 2026 Public Enterprises Games.
The SOE Games are expected to attract around 4,500 participants from across Namibia, promoting teamwork and wellness among employees of public enterprises.
The Public Enterprises Forum announced that 25 percent of all sponsorship secured for the games will be reinvested into the region through a community development project, demonstrating the organisers’ commitment to supporting local communities.
The games officially kicked off with a soccer match between chief executive officers, with the official opening ceremony having been held on Thursday.
Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Emma Kantema, officiated on behalf of Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare and will also participate in the 10-kilometre race.
