Think stability, think entrepreneurialNandi-Ndaitwah promotes self-starters The surest way to ensure Namibia''s wealth is redistributed fruitfully is for citizens to start their own businesses. Entrepreneurship can provide stability to any economy, of which the result will be job creation.This was said by Deputy Prime Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in a speech read by the deputy minister of mines and energy, Kornelia Shilunga, at the opening of the 12th Helao Nafidi Expo on Saturday.
“Entrepreneurship stimulates equitable redistribution of wealth and income in the interest of the country despite the difference of tribe or dialect and geographical location,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said entrepreneurship is vital for Namibia because it can create wealth.
“Government has seen this as a realistic approach and thus it encourages its citizens, especially the youth and mostly women, to jump on the business wagon and own small, medium and large businesses,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
“Entrepreneurs are pioneers; they are innovators, inventors and leaders. They are problem solvers; they are also the ones who identify challenges and try to find solutions,” Nandi-Ndaitwah added.
She also talked about how entrepreneurship can rescue the local economy of the border town of Oshikango, where many businesses closed after losing Angolan customers due to that country''s economic problems.
She said it''s up to local people to take responsibility to come up with new business concepts and ideas to address the situation.
“The locals are the ones who should take up the responsibility of coming up with new business ideas and concepts,” she said.
“Create trade opportunities for yourself and welcome the competition with foreigners,” she added.
The Helao Nafidi Expo started on 21 October and was expected to end on 29 October but the date was extended to 2 November.
About 330 exhibitors are taking part this year, compared to 260 last year.
Helao Nafidi mayor Eliaser Nghipangelwa said he was satisfied with the support from the community.
“So far the outcome is good,” he said.
Namibian Sun also talked to a number of exhibitors who commended the organisers of the expo, saying that they did a great job.
KENYA KAMBOWE