Gaborone – Harnessing the power of emerging markets for economic growth. That`s the theme of Global Expo Botswana (GEB) in the city of Gaborone, capital. The official opening was held on Tuesday, 6th, by the president, Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi, wishing everybody a “very good morning, pula”. Pula is the local money and it means rain, so that it could be as valuable and worth like the rain itself for the country. “We have the opportunity to host GEB 2019 and we invite businessmen and business women to engage in a meaninfull dialogue”, he added.

Masisi emphasizes the potential of Botswana`s economic resources, such as diamond, meat, leather and tourism. “We still need mining for basic economic infrastructure”, he said. His aim is to create more jobs, to promote regional integration, facilitate investments of the private sector, achieve artificial intelligence and be able to compete with markets like Kenya, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa.

“It`s an honour to have the president in this event, which is usually opened by the vice president. It shows great commitment”, said the minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Hon Bogolo Kenewendo. “We also hope that relations with our neighbors and global partners are strengthened, we need to industrialize the economy and GEB is a major trade and investment forum.”

The opening was attended by other authorities like the vice president, Slumber Tsogwane, and the CEO of Botswana Investment Trade Center (BITC), Keletsositse Olebile. The programme continues until August 9th, with discussions about integrating the country into global value chains; how African Continental Free Trade Agreement can benefit small and undiversified economies such as Botswana; driving the nation to a knowledge led economy to keep up with the 4th industrial revolution and opportunities to penetrate high premium beef niche markets.

*The reporter was invited to cover the event by Botswana Embassy in Brasilia