15 Jun 2025

As part of celebrating the 10^th anniversary of the Okavango Delta as a UNESCO World Heritage site, 390 Vision Inc is set to host the Okavango Is Calling expo in the Tsutsubega settlement near the delta.

The event, which will take place from June 20 to 22, will be officially opened by the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Mr Wynter Mmolotsi. Speaking at a breakfast meeting on Friday, Mr Thato Sebati, the chief organiser and acting managing director of 390 Vision Inc, articulated the event’s significance, likening it to the prestigious Dubai Expo.

He described Okavango Is Calling as a bold and immersive experience aimed at reimagining how Botswana showcased its tourism, culture, and sustainability on the global stage. Mr Sebati said the expo would feature a diplomatic and corporate exhibition, offering a platform for exhibitors to present their work to high-profile attendees and gain visibility in a competitive environment.

“At its second iteration, the event will also include an immersive safari experience, providing interactive opportunities that highlight exhibitors’ contributions to conservation and eco-tourism,” he explained.

Additionally, the expo promises a vibrant cultural atmosphere with a music festival and cultural dinner, celebrating Botswana’s rich heritage while fostering informal networking. Mr Sebati further announced the introduction of a pop-up market, where local vendors and artisans would have the chance to showcase and sell their products and services directly to attendees.

“The participation of the private sector will unlock exclusive opportunities for brands to gain visibility through branding, exhibition space and digital media campaigns,” he said.

This includes networking opportunities with influencers and engagement with key stakeholders such as diplomats, government leaders and global investors. Moreover, the event will serve as a platform to showcase innovative solutions and contributions to sustainability and economic growth in the region.

Looking ahead, Mr Sebati confirmed that the expo would rotate across three countries, with next year’s event scheduled for Rundu settlement in Namibia, followed by a gathering in Cubango settlement in Angola in 2027. This ambitious initiative not only highlights the beauty and significance of the Okavango Delta but also aims to strengthen regional ties and encourage sustainable economic development. ENDS