23 Jul 2015

Ngamiland International Trade and Agriculture Expo which aims to promote economic diversification and provide platform for sharing of information is scheduled for July 28 to August 1, at Matshwane Show Ground.

The Agriculture Expo coordinator, Mr Boyce Sekgoma is optimistic that this year’s fair will be a success as more sponsors and companies have shown interest to partake in the event.  

In an interview, Mr Sekgoma said the turn out showed that companies and communities at large appreciate the importance and benefits of the upcoming event.

Various sectors such as the business community, farmers, tourism operators, government departments, private companies and non-governmental organisations have shown interest to make the event a success, he added.

The expo, which will be held under the theme: Unlocking economic development through tourism and agriculture, has attracted exhibitors from Ghanzi, Gaborone, Francistown, Maun and the surrounding villages.


Mr Sekgoma said Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVA), SeedCo, Cresta Rileys hotel, Shumba Security Company, Scania Botswana and the Ministry of Agriculture will sponsor the event.

The office of the district commissioner has also partnered with organisers through market day initiative, where small entrepreneurs including poverty eradication beneficiaries will have an opportunity to sell their products at the show.

“This is a step in the right direction and it really indicates that the event is growing and the local community has the potential to take the district to a greater level,” he added.

“The expo is relevant, as it focuses on agriculture. Again, Maun is a tourism destination, he said.

Mr Sekgoma noted that traditionally, communities in Ngamiland depended largely on the livestock industry for their livelihood and the expo would provide farming or agricultural opportunities.

Different activities lined up for the event include a music festival on July 31 at Show Grounds which will feature local artists and horse race on August 1 at Sakaomba farm,

Mr Sekgoma said negotiations were underway with Trekkers Club owner, Mr Tops Masole to organise a popular artist from outside to spice the event.

So far, preparations are at an advanced stage and stalls are on sale for people who want to showcase their products.

The Corporate stalls are charged P6 500, for medium scale P3000 and stalls for small entrepreneurs cost P750.

The organisers have taken a deliberate decision to offer NGOs free stalls since they are non-profit making organisations. Ends