Africa-Press – Botswana. A strong wind that swept through Francistown in the early hours of Sunday left a trail of devastating damage to the exhibitors’ stalls at the just ended Francistown Business Exhibition (FBE).
It was a destructive end to what had been a successful show at Francistown’s old stadium after strong winds struck the city with such debilitating force that sent gazebos into the nearby Ntshe River.
The last day of the FBE, which had started on August 5, was supposed to end with various activities such as a wellness day by various government and parastatals organisations that had exhibited at the second expo.
One of the exhibitors, Ms Metinah Kale of Gerald Estate said at the time of her arrival at around 6.00am, only a few stalls remained standing whilst the rest had been blown away by the wind.
“I had not thought that the winds were strong enough to blow away our stalls,” she said.
In spite of the last day’s mishap, Ms Kale hailed the expo for being a good platform for Small Medium Micro Enterprise (SMMEs) to showcase their products and services, and pointed out that this year’s edition did not disappoint.
“I managed to meet and network with other people and the results are amazing,” she pointed out, adding that she had sold all her products.
Another exhibitor, Kwa Nokeng Oil’s Mr Thabiso Letshwenyo said expos are extremely valuable for businesses because they provide an opportunity for business owners and entrepreneurs to connect with potential customers, investors and partners. Mr Letshwenyo, whose exhibition stall was also blown away by the wind, indicated that this year’s show raised awareness about their company’s services.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s business advisor, Mr Moses Sereme advised potential entrepreneurs to venture into business at an early age. In an interview with BOPA, Mr Sereme stated that young people tend to be innovative, creative and have fresh ideas that can translate into successful businesses.
“It is advisable that people should start their businesses between the ages of 12 and 15 years because the economy of Africa closes at the age of 25 years. This is so that by the age of 25 years one economically sustainable and strong,” said Mr Sereme, who disclosed that he started his company at the age of 12.
Mr Sereme indicated that young people tended to be more tech-savvy and adept at harnessing technology, which can be an added advantage in today’s digital age.
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