The Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, Tshekedi Khama has praised the organisers of TOURISM EXPO BOTSWANA for coming up with such an idea as it put the country in the map as a host of trade and consumer expos.

South Africa, which is the largest tourism destination in the region, is known for its Indaba, which is held annually in Durban, Kwazulu Natal region.

“I am happy that finally Botswana as one of the premium destinations in the world has joined in the global trend of hosting trade and consumer expos that are designed to create and reinforce awareness,” Khama said when opening the expo which runs from August 13-17.

Through this expo Botswana has joined the ranks of countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe in creating a platform where local trade and consumers have the opportunity to fully experience what Southern Africa and other regions have to offer.

The expo also provides a vital marketing and networking platform for local tourism suppliers and professionals as they are able to interact and create business links with regional and international tourism suppliers. Khama said this will further empower the local trade with vital contacts and knowledge.

“It is my wish to see this Expo grow from strength to strength and I am quite impressed that within its second year it has attracted an impressive calibre of exhibitors,” he said.

Tourism trade and consumer shows globally provide a forum where tourism professionals can network and partner to effect profound positive change for destination positioning.

Through the much needed awareness and interaction provided over the expo duration travel professionals and suppliers are able to learn new trends in the industry, provide much needed information on their respective destinations and also the various technologies in place which are effective promotional tools within the various destinations.

“I cannot emphasise enough the positive impact that trade and consumer shows bring through the various networking opportunities created.”

This year for instance Tourism Expo Botswana exhibitors will have an opportunity to engage with various consumers, suppliers and trade through various activities such as The Corporate Golf Challenge which is targeting corporate executives and entrepreneurs, the consumer days and the one on one trade and media days.

“Over the four day expo duration strong business relationships will be made, vital information and knowledge about the represented destinations will be shared,” the minister added.

Khama said Botswana is one of the most extraordinary and magnificent destinations globally and this expo give us as a nation an opportunity to showcase Botswana to the visiting exhibitors and reinforce the phenomenal magic that as a nation we have to offer.

“Additionally, this expo is not only adding money into the local economy of the host city, Gaborone through providing accommodation, transport and recreational facilities it is also positioning the host city as a world class city that can host regional and international events,” he said.