Ongwediva tightens security ahead of trade fair

ONGWEDIVA – Oshana police regional commander Commissioner Andreas Shipingana Shilelo has assured exhibitors, visitors and the public that the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) will be on high alert throughout the 25th Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF), which starts on Friday.

The OATF will take place from 21 to 29 August 2026 at the Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre, with organisers expecting local and international exhibitors to attend the nine-day event.

Speaking during a meeting with the OATF Preparatory Committee and private security companies on Tuesday, Shilelo urged all security stakeholders to work closely with NamPol and maintain heightened vigilance throughout the trade fair.

“All that we want is safety for the people who are coming here. I do not want to hear anybody complaining that his or her property was stolen,” Shilelo said.

He urged security personnel to remain alert and pay close attention to activities within and around the trade fair premises.

“You have to make sure that your eyes are sober to see everything that will be moving around within the area,” he said.

Shilelo stressed that security should not be left solely to the police, calling on private security companies to cooperate fully with NamPol to prevent incidents and respond effectively to any security concerns. The OAT preparatory committee has contracted three private security companies, which will deploy a combined 114 security personnel to patrol and safeguard the Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre during the event. A police satellite charge office has also been stationed inside the Trade Fair Centre to strengthen police visibility and facilitate a swift response to incidents.

The private security personnel will work alongside NamPol members, with strengthened patrols and monitoring expected across the exhibition grounds.

OATF preparatory committee chairperson Rebekka Hidulika said the security arrangements were necessary to protect people and property as the trade fair prepares to host a strong international presence.

“The safety and security of our exhibitors, visitors and stakeholders are a priority for us,” Hidulika said.

She said the participation of nine countries – South Africa, Angola, Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Tanzania and Kenya – further increases the importance of maintaining a secure environment.

“We want everyone who comes to OATF to feel safe, welcomed and confident to participate in the activities of the trade fair,” she said.

Hidulika said the strengthened security measures would also contribute to the smooth movement of exhibitors and visitors while allowing businesses to showcase their products and services without unnecessary disruptions.

Visitors have been urged to remain vigilant, follow security guidelines and cooperate with security personnel throughout the event.

The 25th OATF is being held under the theme ‘A Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Economy’, with the event expected to promote trade, investment, entrepreneurship, innovation and cross-border business partnerships. –maxhenrich35@gmail.com