03 Sep 2014

The just ended Botswana Consumer Fair brought together the business community, foreign exhibitors and Batswana under one roof for a fun filled week of events.

It included events such as quad bikes, 4X4 rides and a fashion show. Speaking at the prize giving ceremony, the Minister of Wildlife, Environment and Tourism, Mr Tshekedi Khama said this year’s exhibition had grown by four per cent.

It attracted 34 local manufacturers as well as 24 exhibitors from countries such as, Swaziland, Lesotho, Nigeria and South Africa and as far as China, Japan and Pakistan amongst others.

The fair is one of the fastest growing segments of the business tourism industry, which continued to contribute to the country’s turnover, marketing of Botswana’s exports and services, facilitating and brewing knowledge as well as providing a conducive networking environment.

The minister indicated that this year, business people experienced the hospitality and tourism of Botswana, as they also came with their families, saying the exhibitors are the country’s good will ambassador as they will report on positive impacts to their prospective countries.

For his part, Fairground Holdings chief executive officer, Mr Michael Montshiwa said “as the Botswana Consumer Fair, we might not be the wetland paradise that feeds life on earth, but we are undoubtly an oasis for the life of your business to flourish.”

He also mentioned that the fair has grown over the past years from strides to strides and next year it will be its 10th edition which they look forward to continuing to support small and medium enterprises who continue to rise through it.


The head judge, Ms Neo Maruapula, explained that the judging caterer included the overall appearance of the stall, quality appearance and innovation of products and business etiquette.

Companies were awarded with position 1-3 in each category, and under the category of media, Department of Broadcasting Services scooped position one, Duma FM coming second and Department of Information Services coming third.

Agriculture and food technology included Just Cakes in first position, second and third going to Botswana Horticultural Market and Purple Light Creations respectively.

In non-profit making organisations, position one went to Botswana Red Cross Society, followed by Childline Botswana and Tebelopele on third.

Other numerous awards which were given to exhibitors include diplomatic missions, government departments, health and beauty, textiles, leather and handicrafts companies amongst others. Ends