Global Expo expected to generate P90m in revenue

MPHO MOKWAPE
Correspondent | Thursday August 2, 2012 00:00

 

During a media briefing held on Tuesday, Head of BEDIA Portfolio Lameck Nthekela said that they were optimistic about this year's expo, after the success of the previous one, even though a lot of countries were still recovering from the recession.

He highlighted that last year's expo was the best ever, attracting a total of 182 exhibitors from 11 countries as far as Brazil, Germany, Australia and Pakistan. It also attracted  5000 visitors, an increase from 2010' s 4709.

'It was a good year in terms of the project generated, though we experienced a decline in the number of exhibitors, mainly due to countries still reeling from the effects of recession,' he said. 

He pointed out that the Expo was started in 2006 with the intention of attracting foreign direct investors, who assist economic development, as well as create a platform to stimulate entrepreneurs locally by sharing ideas and learning from international entrepreneurs.

He stressed that it was also intended to promote joint venture partnerships between exhibitors by fostering relationships, promoting exports of locally manufactured goods and services and promote trade between Botswana and other countries.

With the theme, 'Fostering Economic Diversification, Skills and Entrepreneurship', Nthekela said that this year, they will be focused on developing and nurturing skills in young entrepreneurs who show passion and determination to succeed in business.

Nthekela said as the premier site, Fairgrounds will host this year's expo from November 21-24. He also said they will conduct workshops for exhibitors, host investments forums with international and local speakers, and one on one buyers and sellers meetings for value addition. He also noted that all local exhibitors would be offered a 30% discount to accord them the chance to come in large numbers.

The Director Export Enterprise for BEDIA Kungo Mabogo said that this year's logo was created in line with the standard logo of the expo, as a way of fostering competitiveness among exhibitors through their products and services.

She also pointed out that the Global Expo is different from the recently held Consumer Fair as it is more business orientated, while the consumer fair that is driven by the market. She stressed that the Expo is mainly for fostering longterm partnerships and sharing of skills and ideas as exhibitors are given a chance to showcase their products and services without the option of selling, until the last day.

'The expo is for business-oriented individuals who want to market and advertise their products and services for long-term benefit. It is also for the businesses operating on a larger scale though we normally have small business exhibitors who want to grow their businesses,' Mabogo emphasised.