Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
The Beitbridge Business Expo plans to develop permanent showgrounds for its future events after it was allocated 13 hectares of land by the local municipality.
The land is located along the highway to Bulawayo and is expected to host the first event on-site in 2026.
Expo vice chairperson Mr Nqobile Ncube said civil works on the site are already in full swing, with significant progress made.
“We are already busy on the ground, we have put a cottage for security personnel, drilled boreholes and now we are busy with paving which is progressing well,” he said.
“We are grateful to our partners and all those who have supported us as we try to promote economic development in our town.
“The expo has strengthened ties with the Musina and Vhembe municipalities, promoting economic cooperation between the towns.
“In addition, it aligns with the Government’s mantra of leaving no one behind, ensuring inclusive participation from various sectors and communities.”
The Beitbridge Business Expo, which typically runs between June and July each year, aims to position the border town as a leading investment destination.
The event provides a platform for local businesses to showcase their products and services, network with potential investors and learn from industry leaders.
He said development of permanent showgrounds will mark a significant milestone in the expo’s growth and its long-term vision to become a national benchmark for business exhibitions.
Mr Ncube revealed that two new exhibitors — Discovery Ambulances and XinTai Resources — have already confirmed their participation for the 2026 edition, an indication of growing interest and confidence in the event.
“We have already registered two new exhibitors for 2026,” he said.
“This is a reflection that the expo will not rest in ensuring that we bring on board exhibitors from all walks of business including the newest operators in Beitbridge.
“We acknowledge the presence of our municipality twinning partners from Musina and Vhembe and it gives us immense joy to be the platform where this twinning is clearly exhibited.
“This is one of the thrusts that the Business Expo is driving.”
He added that this year’s edition will introduce new interactive elements such as tug of war, snooker competitions and raffles, alongside a more robust adjudication process to maintain high standards.
The event will run under the theme “Beitbridge 24 Seven”, a concept that seeks to encourage round-the-clock service delivery by local companies.
The theme aligns with the town’s ongoing modernisation and the 24-hour operation of the Beitbridge Border Post, a key gateway for regional trade.
