THE 2018 Oshakati totem expo kicked off on Friday with 15 totem groups (omapata) and 250 exhibitors taking part.
The number of exhibitors has increased from 190 last year. This is the seventh consecutive year that the Oshakati Town Council hosts the expo.
“Next year, I want to see more exhibitors from various sectors all over the country taking part in this expo for the economic growth and development of our country,” urban and rural development minister Peya Mushelenga said at the official opening on Sunday.
He said opportunities for cultural tourism should be explored through the totem expo and other similar shows.
Mushelenga further urged the exhibitors to grab the opportunity with both hands, and use it to market their products and services.
The Oshakati totem expo last year attracted over 13 000 visitors from all over Namibia, but the minister wants to see more visitors coming to the expo in future. He also said it must be an event that unites Namibians.
“Events of this nature should be treasured,” he added.
Also speaking at the official opening was Oshana governor Clemens Kashuupulwa, who said the expo shares a lot of cultural teachings through oshungi (story-telling sessions).
The oshungi for this year’s expo took place yesterday, and is slated again for tomorrow.
“I urge parents to please allow their children to listen to the oshungi session on radio, or attend the session on those days as vital information will be shared,” said Kashuupulwa.
The 2018 Oshakati totem expo is being held under the theme ‘Strengthening ties through culture’, and ends on Saturday.
It is an annual event which started in 2012. The expo involves commercial activities, and a parade of 15 floats showcasing the totems of participating groups’ respective regions down Oshakati’s main road.
– Nampa
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