25 Aug 2026

Fairgrounds Holdings in Gaborone has since Monday transformed into a vibrant marketplace of ideas, innovation and networking opportunities, marking the official opening of the week-long Botswana Consumer Fair themed: Showcasing Botswana in Full Colour.

The 19^th edition of the annual event promises to drive business to business networking, generate business leads and facilitate brand promotion and market research.

“This exhibition creates visibility for emerging SMEs especially, to make significant connections within their specific industries, linking them with new clients, vendors and influential people within their sectors. The consumer fair will provide a platform for businesses to have direct access to customers, meeting them face to face and build brand awareness without a massive upfront budget.”

 Said Sefalana Holdings Company Limited group managing director.

Officially opening the event, Mr Chandra Chauhan explained that the platform created a unique opportunity for businesses to showcase their products and services, promoting economic trade and creating meaningful, decent jobs in the process. 

He also reiterated how the environment could foster the development of partnerships, joint ventures and mutually beneficial agreement, resulting in a network that could play an essential part in the growth and success of respective companies.

Fairgrounds Holdings chief executive officer, Ms Gorata Gabaraane, stated that their vision was to reflect the diversity, creativity, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, speaking to the richness of the country’s culture, the vibrancy of the people and the overall warmth for which Botswana was known.

“The theme reminds us that our economy is built not only through large investments but also through the persevering entrepreneur, artisan, farmer, creator and business whose collective efforts paint the colorful picture of the nation,” said Ms Gabarane,

In pursuit of diversity, this year’s edition promises to enrich the visitor’s experience through the ‘Taste and Sip Village’ where visitors can experience Botswana’s culinary talent alongside a variety of international flavours in a relaxed environment that fosters networking while complimenting B2B engagements that the fair has always been synonymous with.

“To demonstrate how we continuously evolve, we aim to immerse the consumer into a food, entertainment and social lifestyle experience,” hinted Ms Gabaraane.

The country’s premier consumer exhibition has, over the years, attracted over 550 exhibitors, comprising small, medium and large enterprises locally as well and regionally from Lesotho, South Africa and Swaziland.

“Over the past 18 editions, the Botswana Consumer Fair has continued to evolve, bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs innovators and consumers on a platform that celebrates enterprise, creates market opportunities and stimulate economic activity,” said Ms Gabaraane. ends