Wilderness Botswana inaugurates Local Suppliers Expo
In a momentous gathering aimed at fostering economic empowerment and promoting local entrepreneurship, Okavango Wilderness Safaris ( OWS), known as Wilderness Botswana, welcomed esteemed guests to its offices in Maun for the inaugural Wilderness Local Suppliers Expo.
Addressing the audience, OWS Caretaker Managing Director, Joe Matome underscored their unwavering commitment to Botswana’s people, environment, and economy. With roots dating back to 1983, the company has proudly called Botswana home for over 40 years, with each passing day strengthening its dedication to the nation’s prosperity.
“In a bid to further bolster its commitment to local procurement, Wilderness Botswana conceptualized the Wilderness Local Suppliers Expo. This visionary initiative aims to amplify opportunities for Botswana businesses, providing a platform for collaboration and growth within the local value chain.”- Said OWS Managing Director Joe Matome.
As a stalwart advocate for sustainable tourism and conservation, Wilderness Botswana has long recognized the interconnectedness of tourism and environmental stewardship. The company’s ethos places a premium on empowering local communities and preserving Botswana’s pristine wilderness, understanding that without the wilderness, there can be no Wilderness.
Matome further said that at the heart of Wilderness Botswana’s endeavors lies its people – employees and partners alike – who serve as custodians of community knowledge and environmental insight. Central to this ethos is a robust procurement strategy aimed at supporting local businesses and fostering economic resilience within Botswana.
The Expo has attracted over 110 local vendors representing a diverse array of industries, from ceramics and textiles to agricultural supplies and hospitality services. As attendees familiarize themselves with the offerings, Wilderness Botswana’s procurement, leadership, and finance teams meticulously assess each exhibitor against the company’s stringent criteria, laying the groundwork for potential future partnerships.
One of the exhibitors specializing in pottery, Esther Kotewa said the Expo is a good platform for local manufacturers like herself to introduce her business to other stakeholders, apart from Okavango wilderness Safaris. “What excites me about this expo is that I am showing my capability and building relations. People don’t even know that I also teach individuals doing pottery. This is opening doors for my business.” The Expo is just the beginning. Following this event, eligible suppliers will partake in workshops designed to align expectations, enhance quality standards, and foster collaborative growth. Additionally, esteemed partners from financial institutions and developmental agencies, including Stanbic Bank, NDB, LEA, and CEDA, stand alongside Wilderness Botswana to provide crucial support and guidance to exhibitors.
Reflecting on past achievements, Wilderness Botswana proudly announces that 96percent of its workforce comprises Batswana, with over 1,100 individuals from local communities contributing to the company’s success. Furthermore, in 2023 alone, Wilderness Botswana purchased P1.3 billion worth of goods from local suppliers, representing 85percent of all purchases.
In a bid to further bolster its commitment to local procurement, Wilderness Botswana conceptualized the Wilderness Local Suppliers Expo. This visionary initiative aims to amplify opportunities for Botswana businesses, providing a platform for collaboration and growth within the local value chain