Namibia has been challenged to turn its sporting, cultural and creative potential into real economic opportunities, jobs and sustainable growth, as the country’s inaugural Creative Sport Tourism (CST) Expo officially opened in Windhoek.
Education, sport, tourism and creative industries urged to unite behind jobs, innovation and youth opportunities Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture Dr Sanet Steenkamp officially opened the three-day expo on 2 September 2026 at the Hage Geingob Stadium, bringing together government leaders, industry stakeholders, exhibitors and creative-sector partners.
The high-profile event is positioning sport, tourism and the creative industries as powerful drivers of economic development, with stakeholders urged to break down traditional sector boundaries and build stronger partnerships.
Steenkamp said the expo demonstrates how sport, tourism and creativity can work together to stimulate economic growth, create memorable experiences and unlock opportunities for communities across Namibia. At the heart of the government’s vision is Namibia’s youth.
The Minister urged young Namibians to see opportunities beyond traditional employment and pursue careers as athletes, artists, innovators, entrepreneurs and creators. She said government remains committed to supporting young people through skills development and innovation, while creating platforms where talent can be transformed into sustainable livelihoods. The expo comes at a time when Namibia is seeking new avenues for economic diversification and greater opportunities for its young population.
The convergence of sport, tourism and creative industries could provide a powerful platform for local entrepreneurs, event organisers, artists, athletes and innovators to access new markets. Dr Steenkamp also called for stronger cooperation between government, the private sector and industry partners, warning that Namibia can only maximise its sporting, cultural and creative potential through collective action.
The three-day CST Expo is expected to provide a platform for exhibitors and visitors to showcase products and ideas, participate in interactive experiences and establish partnerships through networking and collaboration. The initiative is being driven by the Emeralds Platform and its partners, who were commended by the Minister for creating a space that brings education, innovation, sport, arts, culture and tourism under one roof.
Dr Steenkamp said such platforms can help connect talent with opportunity and create pathways for Namibians to participate meaningfully in the country’s development. The opening of the CST Expo signals a broader push to recognise sport and creativity not merely as entertainment, but as economic sectors capable of generating employment, entrepreneurship, investment and international visibility for Namibia.
As the expo continues, the challenge will be to turn the enthusiasm and ideas on display into lasting partnerships and measurable opportunities. For Namibia’s young athletes, artists, entrepreneurs and creators, the message is clear: the playing field is no longer just a place to compete, it is a platform to build businesses, careers and the nation’s future.
By Rudi Bowe
