Give women, Youth a chance in business-Ngurare

STAFF WRITER

Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare on Thursday emphasised the need for women and youth participation in the mainstream economy.

He was speaking at the official opening of the Okakarara Annual Trade Fair.

The Trader fair attracted 100 exhibitors this year.

“ As we celebrate this Trade Fair, let us also recognise the central role of our youth, women and rural entrepreneurs who continue to make remarkable contributions to economic development. Their participation is critical in achieving inclusive growth and ensuring that no one is left behind.

“As we celebrate this Trade Fair, let us also recognise the central role of our youth, women and rural entrepreneurs who continue to make remarkable contributions to economic development. 

Their participation is critical in achieving inclusive growth and ensuring

that no one is left behind,” Ngurare said.

Ngurare said exhibitions play an important role in promoting networking and access to the market for small businesses.

“Let me commend all exhibitors for showcasing their products and services and encourage our visitors to support them.

May this Trade Fair inspire new ideas, foster collaboration and open doors to opportunities that uplift the livelihoods of our people.

“To the local business community, let me say this: your work matters. You are not just job creators, you are partners in nation-building. The government is counting on your innovation, your risk- taking efforts and your courage to help us overcome unemployment and inequality. In the same vein, let me also applaud you for their enthusiastic participation,” The Premier said.

Ngurare said the Otjozondjupa region contributes immensely to the Namibian economy through agriculture prtoduction.

“The Otjozondjupa Region in general and in particular Okakarara Constituency are predominantly inhabited by farmers. 

“The Trade Fair, therefore, provides an opportunity to farmers to market their top quality livestock, from small to large, and strive to maximize value addition and compete for best genetics,” Ngurare said.

The Prime Minister said Okakarara Annual Trade Fair has grown into a flagship platform that showcases the resilience and creativity of our people. 

He said the  fair provides opportunities for networking, trade, investment and cultural exchange, strengthening the economic and social fabric of Otjozondjupa Region and the nation at large.

“By creating opportunities for networking and innovation, this initiative actively contributes to our nation’s vision 2030, which aspires to make Namibia an industrialized country by that year,” he said