WINDHOEK, Namibia | Namibia has launched its first Diplomatic Fair, bringing together diplomatic missions, international organisations, educational institutions and businesses to strengthen international relations and create opportunities for trade, investment and cultural exchange.
The Ministry of International Relations and Trade (MIRT) is hosting the inaugural event from 16 to 17 October 2026 under the theme, “Connecting Nations, creating opportunities”.
The fair was officially opened on Friday, 16 October, by Minister of International Relations and Trade, Ambassador Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, who said the initiative was designed to build connections between countries and their people while creating opportunities for cooperation.
“This theme captures the essence of what we seek to achieve through this initiative that we are launching today. I hope you agree with me that, connecting nations begins with connecting people. It requires creating spaces where countries can share their stories, showcase their achievements, communicate their priorities and identify areas of mutual interest,” Honourable Amb. Ashipala-Musavyi noted.
The minister said the event provides an opportunity for Namibians to engage directly with diplomatic missions operating in the country. It also gives young people a chance to learn about other countries and explore opportunities beyond Namibia’s borders, while introducing international visitors to the country’s cultural heritage.
She urged private sector companies to take advantage of the gathering by engaging with participating diplomatic missions, building business relationships, exploring export markets and identifying potential partners for joint ventures and investment.
The fair brings together diplomatic missions and international organisations accredited to Namibia, institutions of higher education, private sector companies and small and medium enterprises, creating a meeting point for stakeholders interested in international cooperation and economic development.
According to the ministry, the initiative will become an annual event, providing a platform for participating countries and organisations to present their products, investment opportunities, tourism attractions and areas of potential cooperation.
Beyond diplomatic engagement, the fair seeks to strengthen relations between Namibia and other countries by encouraging direct interaction among people and improving public understanding of the nations represented at the event.
It also aims to expand opportunities for trade, investment and economic cooperation, supporting broader regional and continental integration efforts across Africa.
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