Africa-Press – Botswana. Preparations for this year’s Business Botswana Northern Trade Fair (BBNTF) are progressing well.
The 29th edition of the fair, which is expected to be officially opened by the Vice President, Mr Ndaba Gaolathe will run from May 21 to 25.
Northern Business Botswana (BB) head, Ms Eileen van der Est, announced during a press conference on Tuesday in Francistown that this year’s exhibition was expected to attract more than 158 exhibitors from diverse sectors, exceeding last year’s 146.
These exhibitors, representing various parts of Botswana will showcase their products and services across sectors such as agriculture, banking, parastatals, and information technology.
Ms van der Est emphasised the fair’s importance as the largest in northern Botswana, driving local economic activity and providing a platform for small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) to expand their market reach and explore partnerships. The fair also significantly benefits the hospitality, transport, retail, informal, and entertainment sectors. This year’s theme: Driving Diversification: Innovation for Sustainable Growth, aligns with Vision 2036 aspirations and Sustainable Development Goal 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure). Ms van der Est said it also encouraged entrepreneurship, digital diversification, and sustainable practices, and supported Francistown’s economic development strategy. She said the fair was open to all exhibitors regardless of size, with a notable increase in private sector participation compared to previous years. While no foreign exhibitors have yet registered, BB is actively pursuing international participation despite financial constraints.
Ms van der Est said plans were underway to expand the trade fair grounds.
She highlighted the increased participation of dynamic new businesses and innovative approaches from returning exhibitors, along with expanded stall space to accommodate greater numbers, including crucial informal sector businesses.
The Northern BB aims to generate revenue to stimulate local economic growth and expects a larger number of small businesses to participate this year.
Botswana Soda Ash’s Marketing manager, Mr Moitshepi Sefako, stated that their sponsorship reflected the company’s commitment to supporting private sector growth, particularly in the northern region where they operate, aligning with their mandate to contribute to Botswana’s industrial and economic development.
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