By Elia Chibwe

Lilongwe April 27 MANA: Malawi Tourism Council has urged people in private sector to use Malawi International Tourism Expo (MITE) as an opportunity in a year for showcasing their products to the local and international buyers.

Speaking during the 5th edition 2024 MITE celebrated under the theme’ ‘Takulandirani" in Lilongwe, Executive Director for Malawi Tourism Council, Memory Momba Kamthunzi said the event gives an opportunity to all private sectors including domestic tourism.

"As a council we would like to encourage you to say this expo is for us the people in private sector. This is the only opportunity that we have in a year, almost every April we are able to showcase the products. Let us make use of this opportunity," Kamthunzi said.

She added that starting from 2023, they have always been promoting domestic tourism.

Kamthunzi further said the objectives of the event have been achieved this year as more operators across the country have showcased their products, offering to the public and buyers.

"This year we have achieved our objectives, all establishments that showcased their products have been able to interact with the buyers that came through, and there was also a special day open for the public. Alot of people came to appreciate the products that different tourism enterprises offer here in Malawi," she said.

In a separate interview, Creative Director for Queen Tenge, Linda Zamaere said the event played a great role in increasing collaboration and brand awareness.

". For business people it is always good to be part of a special event because this enables us to network with other companies and other participants. This has also increased collaboration and brand awareness and a big patronage at our shops,” Zamaere said.

She further appreciated the growth of fashion industry in Malawi, saying for several years people did not see fashion as a career.

Products, marketing and Communications Manager for Sunbird Tourism, Widdey Nsona said it was a great opportunity to network and meet different potential clients.

"Those who missed the event, next year they should definitely come. It is a great opportunity to make new connections and network with buyers and different potential clients," Nsona said.

Malawi International Tourism Expo is held every year in every April. This year it was held from 25th to 27th April with the theme "Takulandirani"