28 Aug 2024

With more than 550 exhibitors, the Botswana Consumer Fair stands as a testament to the vibrant growth and endless opportunities within the business landscape, says Debswana Diamond Company’s Managing Director, Mr Andrew Motsomi.

Speaking during the opening of the 2024 Botswana Consumer Fair which kicked started Agust 26 in Gaborone, Mr Motsomi said the show held immense significance, offering a critical platform for businesses to showcase their products, engage directly with consumers and network with industry professionals.

Mr Motsomi said the participation and empowerment of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) was crucial, offering them unparalleled exposure and growth opportunities, thereby driving local economic development and innovation.

He said the Traders Hub and Tourism Pavilion play pivotal roles in showcasing their diverse industries and attractions, enhancing cross sector collaboration, and promoting Botswana’s rich cultural and tourism potential to a broader audience.

Mr Motsomi said for over 50 years, the nation’s economy has been anchored by diamonds, a finite resource, and the challenge was to begin seeking and nurturing opportunities beyond mining.

Mr Motsomi urged all to discover their next diamond as a nation, adding that the journey starts with safeguarding today to secure tomorrow.

He said by facilitating local business participation, the Botswana Consumer Fair directly supported the goal of promoting economic diversification and bolstered community development.

He added that the fair fostered valuable partnerships, sparked innovation, and strengthened the local business ecosystem, which are crucial elements in driving sustainable economic growth.

The Chief Executive Officer of Fairgrounds Holdings, Ms Gorata Gabaraane, said this year’s Botswana Consumer Fair was a dynamic platform where innovation, enterprise, and sustainability will converge for the next seven days.

She said their goal was to create a thriving economy that existed and coexisted harmoniously with the natural world.

She said: “At Fairgrounds Holdings, we are committed to this vision and as such the infrastructure of the Botswana Consumer Fair of this year is not just an exhibition but a celebration of sustainable practices and a call for action. We have brought together diverse exhibitors representing all sectors of the economy who embody this commitment, showcasing products and services that promote economic growth and practices as well as sustainable growth.”

Ms Gabaraane said over the past two years, the Botswana Consumer Fair had demonstrated a remarkable growth, affirming its status as a premier event in the region, adding that in 2022, the fair attracted 34 000 attendees and hosted 550 exhibitors.

She said building onto this success, in 2023 the event saw a notable increase drawing 36 000 visitors and featuring 570 exhibitors, citing that this consistent upward trend in participation highlights the fair’s significant role in fostering business opportunities and economic development in Botswana.  Ends