Maseru, June 03 — Local entrepreneurs have called the government through Basotho Enterprises Development Cooperation (BEDCO) to reconsider and lead them for participation in global flea markets, particularly the annual one held every August in Botswana.
These are the opinions of Mrs. Makaoli Litabe of Ha Mabote who operate at ‘Mokorotlong’, Maseru selling Basotho hats amongst other things.
She indicated that while they had an opportunity to sell in Botswana previously, where Basotho cultural products and services are mostly loved, this stopped two years ago due to financial constraints.
Mrs. Litabe stated that while the monthly flea market still serves a purpose to some extent, especially to those selling food, the need to also review processes leading to participation in global flea markets is yet a matter that can bring a positive economic turn-around to local producers and the country as well.
She explained that to meet government half way, it is imperative to draw a plan with BEDCO so that unlike in the past when government was incurring all expenses for them to be in Botswana, this time they can meet government half way maybe by ensuring that they book their own accommodation while government incurs other costs.
Another entrepreneur, Mrs. ‘Mapotsane Mohale of Maseru Indicated flea markets are ideal for business dealings, saying private sector led economy as per today’s government can be achieved through stronger participation of business people in initiatives such as the Botswana annual flea market.
“Botswana is one of the African countries that is doing well economically, the more we network with them, the more we can tap into best practices in growing our businesses,” she stressed.
In an interview with BEDCO Senior Manager Public Relations- Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations, Ms. ‘Mamahapela Mokuoane said the fact that they have now introduced monthly flea markets, is their step towards exploring all avenues that can contribute to economic growth in line with National Strategic Development (NSDP) II review extension.
“We are yet to evaluate, meet with business people to see how best we can expand”.
The National Flea Market Association in the United States of America has regularly called countries to engage in this type of street market as it has potential to increase sales.
