President Advocate Duma Boko yesterday officially opened the 2026 Trade Up North Mining and Construction Conference and Expo, reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting citizen economic empowerment and expanding local participation in Botswana’s key productive sectors.
The conference and expo brought together exhibitors, entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and visitors from across Botswana and neighbouring countries to showcase products, services, and innovations in the mining, manufacturing, and construction industries.
Addressing delegates at the opening ceremony, President Boko said the expo provides an important platform for fostering partnerships, encouraging innovation, and creating opportunities for Batswana-owned businesses to participate meaningfully in the country’s economic development.
He underscored the need to strengthen local industries and ensure that citizens benefit from the wealth generated by Botswana’s natural resources.
The President also highlighted the importance of value addition, skills development, and entrepreneurship as critical drivers of sustainable economic growth. He encouraged businesses to embrace new technologies, improve competitiveness, and build strategic partnerships that will contribute to industrialisation and job creation.
The Trade Up North Mining and Construction Conference and Expo is expected to facilitate networking among businesses, government institutions, and investors while showcasing emerging opportunities in mining, manufacturing, and construction.
Organisers say the event aims to increase citizen participation in these sectors and stimulate investment that will support Botswana’s economic diversification agenda.
Throughout the expo, participants are engaging in exhibitions, business-to-business meetings, and knowledge-sharing sessions designed to strengthen collaboration and unlock new commercial opportunities across the region. The event is expected to further position Botswana as an attractive destination for investment while advancing inclusive economic growth through citizen empowerment.
