Local SMMEs showcase in ITB Berlin Convention
Five local small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the tourism industry recently exhibited at the ITB Berlin Convention, the world’s premier travel industry event.
Held from March 5th to 7th, the convention brought together thousands of participants from 170 countries, showcasing Botswana’s tourism offerings to an estimated audience of 24,000 visitors.
The five SMMEs supported by the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) represented various sectors within the tourism industry, including travel agencies, mobile safari operators, and accommodation providers. Among them were House of Safari, Africa Passions Travel, Fine Bush Tours, Bush Giants Safaris, and Makgovango Luxury Inn. These enterprises, primarily hailing from Maun, formed part of the 24 Botswana companies exhibiting under the Botswana Tourism stall.
The ITB Berlin Convention is the world’s leading travel trade show, organized by Messe Berlin in Germany annually. It serves as a pivotal Business-to-Business (B2B) platform, attracting a diverse exhibitors, trade visitors, and buyers from across the globe. Participants include hotels, tour operators, airlines, tourism tech firms, and more, making it an ideal space for networking, business transactions, and industry insights.
LEA’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Boipuso Nyatshane told Business Trends that LEA’s support for SMME participation in such global events underscores its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and facilitating market access. “By providing opportunities for exposure on an international stage, we enable SMMEs to showcase their offerings to potential buyers, destination marketing companies, and leisure tourism services.” The ITB Berlin Convention offers a rich tapestry of activities, including expert discussions, presentations, business partner suggestions, and networking opportunities. Nyatshane said this year’s agenda covered a wide range of topics, including the state of the travel industry, diversity and inclusion in tourism products, technology trends in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, and the future of youth travel. “With over 400 speakers in attendance, the convention provides unparalleled exposure for participating enterprises. It serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and business growth, fostering innovation and excellence within the global tourism landscape.”
She said two additional LEA clients self-sponsored their attendance at the event, recognizing the value of previous participation. “This demonstrates the tangible benefits that accrue from engaging with international markets and industry stakeholders.” Nyatshane further emphasized that the participation of the SMMEs at the ITB Berlin Convention highlights Botswana’s growing prominence as a tourism destination. “Through our strategic support, SMMEs are poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities, contributing to the sustainable development of Botswana’s tourism sector.”