The event will be officially opened by the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Mr Tiroaone Ntsima, who is also Member of Parliament for Francistown East today while minister for State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa is also expected to deliberate on public-private cooperation and its role in economic growth.

Held under the theme: Value Chain Revolution: From Local Resources to Global Markets at the Business Botswana Grounds in Gerald Estates, the theme underscores the need to move the country beyond raw resources.

Business Botswana Public Relations Officer, Ms Patience Lebotse revealed in an interview on Tuesday, that the theme was indeed a direct call for economic diversification noting that it challenges Botswana to tap into all sectors of the value chain.

“This them also aims to see Batswana businesses trading within Africa and beyond as the event is designed to connect small and large enterprises to explore available opportunities,” she said.

Ms Lebotse also said the trade fair turns 30 at a time when Botswana was pushing for economic diversification and highly involvement of the private sector in leading the country’s economy.

 A highlight of this year’s programme, Ms Lebotse indicated was the Botswana-Zambia Business Forum, scheduled for Wednesday which would bring together business people from both countries to identify trade and investment opportunities.

“This platform will offer discussions on where Batswana and Zambians can collaborate to trade better,” Ms Lebotse said.

Furthermore, she noted that this year, 120 businesses have registered to exhibit citing that the number was slightly lower as compared to last year, attributing the low number to the economic crisis still facing the country.

However, she appreciated that the range of sectors remained broad, covering close to 98 per cent of private sector.

Ms Lebotse encouraged Francistown residents to attend in good numbers and engage with exhibitors noting that this year entrance was free with gates open from 2pm to 6pm until Thursday, May 29.

On Friday and Saturday, May 30-31, the fair will run from 8am to 6pm with lots of activities. ENDS