THE 28TH NORTHERN TRADE FAIR A RESOUNDING SUCCESS
27 May, 2024
The 28th Northern Trade Fair held from 22nd until 26th May 2024, in Francistown attracted over 145 exhibitors from across all sectors of the economy. The Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Fidelis Molao officiated under the theme “ Sustainable Innovation: Building a Greener Economy”
For five (5) days, the fair provided a platform for businesses to showcase different innovations, trends, synergies, and marketing opportunities for both exhibitors and visitors. We also witnessed an increase in private-sector participation, and anticipate building on the momentum and preparing for future fairs.
In his remarks, the Mayor of Francistown, Hon. Godisang Radisigo thanked Business Botswana for consistently bringing the Northern Region closer to investors through its esteemed events, shining a spotlight on Francistown every year. He also implored exhibitors, and visitors to explore Francistown’s rich culture, and investment opportunities offered by the City.
He further implored the government through the Ministry of Agriculture to facilitate innovation and advancement in the agricultural sector in Francistown as a way to propel economic growth and prosperity for the people of the North, particularly Francistown.
Echoing the Mayor’s remarks, the president of Business Botswana, Mr. Neo Nwako stated that hosting the fair in Francistown was strategic as the Northern region is endowed with abundant natural resources, a skilled workforce, and strategic geographic positioning, making it a prime destination for investment and economic development. Citing that Business Botswana is mandated to build a diverse, vibrant, and robust private sector. Therefore, the Northern Trade Fair provided for dynamic engagements, and interactions amongst businesses particularly SMEs to connect, network, collaborate on business enhancements, and seize unparalleled opportunities in today’s globalized economy.
The CEO of Business Botswana indicated that year exhibitors showed innovation, creativity, and ingenuity and showcased solutions that have the potential to revive economic progress. Adding the local economic value chain benefitted from the hospitality, retail, informal, services, transportation, and health sectors benefiting the most. Therefore, future fairs will be bigger and better and will target and attract international exhibitors.
The fair ended with a prize-giving ceremony where 48 awards were presented to various winners.