The Organic and Natural Products Expo Africa returns to Sandton Convention Centre from 18-20 September, bringing together the Continent’s most innovative sustainable brands, emerging township entrepreneurs, and international buyers for three days of industry-defining networking and business development.
This year’s event has already secured over 2,500 registered trade visitors and approximately 250 attendees for the co-located Africa Bio Trade Festival, making it the largest edition in the expo’s history.
“We’re seeing unprecedented interest from international buyers who recognise Africa’s potential in the global organic market, whilst simultaneously providing a vital platform for our local entrepreneurs to scale their businesses,” says Warren Hickinbotham, Head of Sponsorships and Partnerships for the Expo. This expo has become the bridge between grassroots innovation and commercial success.”
Women’s Imbizo Addresses Industry Priorities
The Women’s Imbizo on Saturday, 19 September, will feature industry leaders including Nonnie Kubeka from Gauteng Tourism Authority, and panels covering financial health, traditional medicine, and agricultural education. The programme includes:
State of Organic SA industry – overview by Alan Rosenberg from the South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO)Food design and circular economy discussions, facilitated by Nicci Robertson, founder of Re-Invent Health. Gary Jackson (founder of Jacksons) and Lorrainne Jenks (Climate, Sustainability, Circularity & ESG Guide and founder of Hotelstuff and GreenStuff) are panelistsStandard Bank financial health panelSAB Foundation brand stories with black female founders, featuring Liz Letsoalo (Masodi Beauty) and Aobakwe Lenkwe (Scaled Impact)The economy of muti and ecosystem of African traditional medicine, presented by Mpho Masondo from the African National Healers AssociationRise to the Re-Awakening of the Feminine Being – The Time is Now, conveyed by Dr Jane Mackenzie from 365 Healthy By ChoiceFarmers Weekly education panel hosted by editor Janine Ryan. The panel will focus on the importance of education, exploring syllabus development and mentorship and coaching. Panelists include Dr. Lindie von Maltitz, Lecturer: Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State; Laurika du Bois, Director of Communication, Marketing, and New Business: Agri Skills Transfer and Dr Ethel Zulu, Founder and Managing Director of Hope Nutrition.
Township Innovation in the Spotlight
The Innovation Hub, a subsidiary of Gauteng’s Department of Economic Development, is bringing significant grassroots representation through their Ekasi Labs programme, showcasing 20 township-based entrepreneurs from across 10 different townships.
“We’re putting the spotlight on these entrepreneurs so they can expand their market reach, build new partnerships, and connect with buyers they wouldn’t normally access,” explains Hector Ndlovu, Business Development Officer at the Innovation Hub. “Every time there’s an organic expo, our entrepreneurs ask ‘Can we go again?’ because they see the real business opportunities these events create.”
International Participation Strengthens Continental Reach
Confirmed exhibitors and delegates from Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, and other African nations reinforce the expo’s position as Africa’s premier sustainable living event. International organisations are also leveraging the platform to expand South African businesses into global markets.
“We’re excited to attend our first Organic and Natural Products Africa Expo in South Africa to discover the incredible natural ingredients this country offers,” says Naomi Bossett from Germany’s Import Promotion Desk. “Our mission is connecting South African SMEs with European markets. Through our three-year programme, we’ve seen companies double their exports, turnover, and workforce – and we’re looking for more success stories to write together.”
Exhibitor Confidence Drives Expansion
Returning exhibitors are also demonstrating their confidence by increasing their participation. Andrew Visser, owner of Naturelle Beds, explains: “After the phenomenal interest we received at the Cape Town event earlier this year, we’ve increased our stand size. What makes this show valuable is that visitors come with genuine commitment to organic living.”
Visitor Incentives and Partnerships
As an added incentive, official radio partners Hot 102.7 FM, will be offering showgoers the opportunity to win premium product hampers from Allulo, Sought After Seedlings, Naturelle Beds, Wellness Pantry and New Moon Botanicals.
The Organic and Natural Products Expo Africa is supported by key partners including the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Standard Bank South Africa, SAOSO, and numerous industry associations.
Catherine Larkin
Soweto Sunrise News
