Lilongwe trade fair attracts 30 exhibitors

The Lilongwe trade fair which started on Monday at the Game Stores Park has attracted 30 local small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) and three big companies.
Apart from local SMEs, organisers are expecting entrepreneurs from Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya to attend the fair.
Speaking soon after opening of the exhibition one of the organisers, Owen Mataya of Tsamba Canes, said they were compelled to organise another fair following the success of the first one which took place in June.
“You see, SMEs are the ones creating a high level of employment opportunities and without visibility they cannot grow. In June, we had another fair and it was successful as such we were motivated to organise another one.
“This time around, we even invited big companies and we are glad that Airtel, MultiChoice and Solar Energy accepted to take part,” said Mataya.
He disclosed that for one to participate there was a need to pay a fee and this was done to make the event successful as some logistics needed a lot of money.
“We had to pay the owners of the car park, pay for adverts and buy fuel for the cars transporting organisers. Sme’s were paying K30 000 while big companies paid K85 000 for the seven days they will be showcasing their wares,” said Mataya.
A regular patron to the fares Harry Longwe commended SMEs for organising the event saying it gives customers a good opportunity to view products made by Malawians.
“In any business without exposure nothing can move and we want more and more Mlawians to organise similar events even in districts because that is one way to make customers know that you exist,” said Longwe.