16 Mar 2026

The successful inaugural Francistown motor show held on Saturday, emerged as a catalyst for economic growth, innovation and partnership in the northern Botswana.

The event, which brought together 30 exhibitors and 60 car dealers from across the country and South Africa, showcased a range of old and modern vehicles, highlighting the city’s potential for economic growth and innovation.

Francistown Mayor, Mr Gaone Majere emphasised the importance of automotive industry in driving local economic development, creating employment opportunities and supporting other sectors such as insurance, banking and small businesses.

“Every vehicle sold contributes to the growth of our local economy and the livelihoods of many families,” said Mr Majere. He highlighted the importance of the event, emphasising Francistown’s potential as a thriving commercial hub.

“The event also provides a platform for dealership to market their brands, attract new customers, and build partnerships, strengthening Francistown’s position as a commercial centre in the northern Botswana,” he said.

Mr Majere said the motor show also promoted skills development among young people, encouraging careers in mechanics, auto-electrics, and engineering. The mayor therefore called on the organisers  to make it an annual event, in order to attract investors, motor enthusiastic, and businesses from across Botswana and beyond.

He said since the closure of the mines surrounding Francistown in 2011, the economy of Francistown had collapsed and events such as this one were aimed at creating employment, especially for the youth. He therefore commended the organisers of the event for bringing it for the first time in Francistown to boost the city’s local economy.

Echoing his sentiments, Francistown specially elected Councillor, Mr Marios Mozawazi, highlighted the motor show’s significance in celebrating business growth, innovation and opportunity.

“The automotive industry is a strong driver of local economic development,” he said, emphasising the cent’s multiplier effect on the local economy.

Mr Mozawazi further said as the second city celebrates this milestone, stakeholders must be optimistic about the event’s potential to catalyse economic revival and cement’ Francistown’s position as a commercial hub.

Insure Guard, the main insurance sponsor, reaffirmed its commitment to the automotive industry, offering innovative insurance solutions and value added products. The company’s Programme Director, Ms Amantle Madisa said the event fostered innovation, opportunity and collaboration, driving the growth of the automotive ecosystem.

She said events like the Francistown motor show were vital because they allowed businesses to connect, ideas to be exchanged, and partnerships to be formed.

The Chief organiser of the event, Mr Joseph Khengere said at times, people tend to undermine Francistown but emphasised that the second city had the potential to enhance economic growth through such events. BOPA