Helao Nafidi’s annual expo contributes to town’s growth

More than two decades after Helao Nafidi began operating as a town, its annual Business Expo continues to provide a platform for promoting local businesses, attracting investment and showcasing the economic opportunities available in the border town.

Established in 2004, Helao Nafidi has developed its role as a commercial centre in the Ohangwena region, with its location near the Namibia-Angola border offering opportunities for trade and business growth

The annual Helao Nafidi Business Expo is one of the platforms through which the town promotes this potential, bringing together businesses, government institutions, investors and community members.

Mayor Darius Shaalukeni said the expo plays an important role in promoting economic development, entrepreneurship, innovation and investment

He said the event allows businesses to market their products and services, establish partnerships and exchange ideas, while giving potential investors an opportunity to explore the town’s business environment.

“The Expo is more than just an exhibition; it is a platform for building relationships, discovering opportunities, sharing ideas, and shaping the future of our local economy,” Shaalukeni said.

Speaking at the official opening of the expo, Deputy Minister of Works and Transport Hans Haikali highlighted the importance of investing in young people and creating opportunities for innovation

The expo, held from 26 October to 1 November under the theme “Ignite the Future: Unearthing Youth Potential and Innovation at the Heart of Helao Nafidi Town, our border Town, a hidden treasure,” seeks to encourage young entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas, network with established businesses and turn their innovations into viable enterprises.

Haikali said Helao Nafidi’s position as a border town gives it the potential to become a centre of economic activity and cross-border cooperation but added that young people must be supported to contribute to its development.

“Our young people are the architects of our future,” he said, calling on entrepreneurs, investors and visitors to use the Expo to build partnerships and promote mentorship.

He also raised concerns about persistent power outages in the town, warning that electricity interruptions affect traders, retailers and small businesses through lost sales, spoiled goods and disruptions to payment systems.

Haikali said addressing the problem through improved electricity infrastructure, alternative energy solutions and better communication about outages would be important in protecting local businesses and attracting investment.

Building on its border advantage

Helao Nafidi’s position near the Oshikango border gives the town potential in retail trade, logistics, warehousing, transport, hospitality, property development and manufacturing.

The movement of people and goods between Namibia and Angola creates demand for services that support cross-border commerce. The town’s ability to attract businesses in these sectors will be important in strengthening its economic base.

Shaalukeni said Helao Nafidi’s strategic location provides opportunities for businesses seeking to reach Namibian and regional markets.

He said continued infrastructure development and an environment that supports business activity would help the town strengthen its position as a regional trade and investment centre.

The Expo provides an opportunity to bring these prospects to the attention of investors while allowing established businesses and emerging entrepreneurs to showcase their services.

Beyond the exhibition grounds

The Expo also incorporates sport, entertainment, culture and community engagement, making it more than a business exhibition.

Preparations include coordinating exhibitors, marketing and promotional activities, logistical planning and entertainment programming. The council has also been improving facilities at the Helao Nafidi Expo and Sports Centre.

The development of basketball and netball courts at the venue forms part of efforts to create a multipurpose facility that can accommodate business exhibitions, sporting activities and community events.

These facilities have the potential to serve residents beyond the annual Expo, supporting a wider range of sporting and community activities.

Shaalukeni said the council’s long-term vision is to see Helao Nafidi become a well-planned and economically competitive border town that attracts investment, creates employment opportunities and improves residents’ quality of life.

He encouraged businesses, investors and visitors to engage with exhibitors, explore possible partnerships and learn more about the opportunities available in the town.

As Helao Nafidi looks towards its next stage of development, the Expo offers a platform to connect its commercial ambitions with the businesses, entrepreneurs and communities that contribute to its local economy. [email protected]

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