25 Mar 2024

In an effort to foster entrepreneurship and support the growth of small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMES) in Botswana, the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) recently organised a dynamic buyer-seller forum/workshop. 

The event, held at the Maun Lodge on Thursday, brought together aspiring entrepreneurs, established business owners, and key stakeholders in the business community to appreciate SMMEs products and service offerings as well as network with other stakeholders in the business fraternity. 

Speaking at the event LEA Branch Manager, Mr Outlwile Ebutswe, said the primary objective of the forum was to create a platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among participants. 

“This is the opportunity for sellers to showcase their products and services, explore potential partnerships, and gain valuable insights into market trends and business strategies, and even get direct feedback from buyers,” he said.  He further said SMMES are the engines of future economic growth thus consistent support from forums like these stimulates sustainable SMMES. 

He encouraged Batswana to continue taking pride in the local products available in the market. 

For her part, District Commissioner’s Office Tender Secretary, Ms Neo Sigwele, advised sellers to approach the government at all times so as to ask about products and services needed to be at an advantage to partner with them. 

“There’s need for suppliers to also register their company profiles with the different departments’ data base as that will help you to be abreast with tenders and to be visible for the biddings,” she said. 

Okavango Wilderness Safaris Warehouse Manager and Procurement Head, Mr Tapera Sithole, said as Botswana continues to prioritise the development of its SMMEs, initiatives such as the LEA›s buyer-seller forum play a crucial role in nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“By fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth, these events are instrumental in driving economic prosperity and creating a thriving business community in the country,” he said.

Mood Craft Founder, Ms Neo Maretlwaneng, said attending the recent business forum hosted by LEA was a game changer for her small enterprise. 

“The opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs, showcase my products, and engage in insightful discussions with industry experts was invaluable,” she said. For his part, Build Plus Hardware Manager, Mr Othusitse Odirile appreciated the benefits of getting feedback about their products from buyers as well as the chance to benchmark from fellow entrepreneurs especially that their business is still new in the industry. ENDs