Gaborone, Botswana – Zimbabwean companies concluded the Global Expo Botswana 2025 on a high note, securing numerous commercial leads and strategic partnerships that underscore the country’s growing export capacity and product quality. The strong performance was capped by Zimbabwe clinching the prestigious Top International Exhibitor Award.
A contingent of 20 local firms spanning manufacturing, agriculture, services, and technology participated in the annual Gaborone expo, generating significant attention at the Zimbabwe Pavilion. Notably, Botswana President Duma Boko conducted a brief tour of the pavilion, receiving a briefing on the diverse capabilities offered by the Zimbabwean contingent.
Commercial Deals and Strategic Synergies
According to Ms. Nozipho Maphala from ZimTrade, the expo yielded immediate commercial results, with several opportunities now under negotiation:
- Horticultural Produce: Contracts for fresh fruit and vegetables.
- FMCG Supply Agreements: Deals for Fast-Moving Consumer Goods.
- Services Contracts: Various service agreements.
Beyond sales, Zimbabwean companies forged partnership agreements focused on regional distribution for sectors like leather products and cosmetics, strategically aiming to scale market access across Southern Africa.
Furthermore, technical cooperation and capacity-building were a key focus. Skills-training services contracts centered on modern farming practices are being discussed to support long-term productivity and export readiness among Batswana farmers.
Exhibitors Hail Platform
Participating entrepreneurs expressed optimism about the platform’s impact. Mr. Collen Moyo, founder of Viridi Solutions, which produces eco-friendly green oils, reported securing strong business leads. “We are now registered in Botswana and there’s a lot of demand for our products because they’re eco-friendly… [for use] in coal mining and other mining that is happening here,” he noted.
Ms. Nobuhle Ntaisi of Nobby’Snax Company, a biltong producer, called the expo an “eye-opener,” revealing talks of potential partnerships and bringing their meat products to Botswana’s market. Similarly, Golden Harvest Honey and African Crown (natural hair products) secured new clients and expressed intent to aggressively market their brands in Botswana.
