17 Sep 2014

The deputy permanent secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs has revealed that the second northern women’s exposition will be in Francistown, Botswana Confederation of Commerce, Industry and Manpower (BOCCIM) grounds from September 22-27.

Addressing the media on Tuesday September 16, Ms Kelebogile Kgabi said the exposition, which will be held under the theme: “Women’s Economic Empowerment: Prosperity and Progress for All,” will cover some parts of the Central District, Ngamiland, Chobe, North East and Francistown.

She said the exposition was split into two to ensure that as many women as possible were enrolled. She said the northern exposition was introduced to increase the intake of national expositions.

Ms Kgabi noted that poverty was still the main contributor of gender inequality, adding that  empowering women contributes to a stable and equal society.

She said the government has committed substantial resources to poverty eradication including empowerment of women. She said to demonstrate commitment, a 10 per cent of the alcohol levy collection was pledged to women economic programmes.

Ms Kgabi said the empowerment of women has a multiplier effect because when women succeed the family flourishes and children were assured of good upbringing and education.

She said her ministry supports groups of women and men through grants to start income generating ventures. She added that due to the difficulties in penetrating the limited market, the ministry has deliberately decided to hand-hold the entrepreneurs through expositions and fairs.

Concerning the northern exposition, Ms Kgabi said it would kick off with a business forum on September 23. She said women entrepreneurs would be equipped with business management skills as well as a holistic approach for sustaining their livelihood.

Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Mr Edwin Batshu is expected to officiate at the event on September 25 and where more than 150 exhibitors are expected.

Gates will be opened to members of the public on September 26 and entrance is free. ENDS