September 29, 2005
By Rose Setshoge
BRIGHT red bags stand waiting to be filled with goodies - souvenirs and leaflets from various exhibitions and stalls - as visitors explore what's on offer at the Absa Soweto Festival.
On until Sunday, 2 October, the festival gives emerging entrepreneurs and established businesses the chance to showcase lifestyle products.
The festival is being held for the first time this year and it takes place at the Elkah Stadium in Rockville.
"The festival will give smaller organisations an opportunity to exhibit their goods alongside established brands, as well as learn important lessons through workshops and interaction with the target market and larger organisations," said Toby Chance, one of the organisers.
The Soweto Wholesale Market: James Phaahla of the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market talks to Simon Kau
Five tents make up the show, and all are jam-packed with furniture, electrical appliances and crafts, giving visitors a "shop 'til you drop" experience.
On sale are traditional clothes, wedding gowns, bedding, health and beauty products, cars, sound systems, hardware, kitchen units, computers, art, pictures, hand-made goods, fruit and veggies, and street corner snacks.
Among the exhibitors are the City of Johannesburg, City Parks, Pikitup, the City of Joburg Property Company and Joburg Water. The Soweto Wholesale Market, a satellite of the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market, is also present to promote a healthy lifestyle, emphasising the importance of eating fresh fruit and vegetables.
There is entertainment galore, from choirs and music to ballroom dancing and various competitions. Artists are also on hand, with bright exhibitions.
Lost kids are kept safe in a small area furnished with multi-coloured beanbags, chairs and tables, as well as a jumping castle.
Some of the brands on display have not yet hit the market, such as Nqobile Mahange's Ultimate Choice Chilli Sauce. Her produce is to be on shelves at Score and Shoprite by the end of October.
Mahange created her own recipe and started selling her sauce to her neighbours. After two years of small-time sales, she is ready to market her recipe to the nation.
"I was depressed when I started because I thought that people would never like my sauce," said Mahange. "But now I am happy that my dream is finally coming true."
The main sponsors of the festival are banking group Absa, Gauteng Tourism Authority, the City of Johannesburg, Soweto Tourism Development Association and Johannesburg Tourism Company.
A pamphlet handed out at the festival lists its objectives as empowering local traders and developing sustainable business opportunities; enriching the community through project-driven activities; promoting government departments, community organisations and non-governmental organisations; and representing the talents and culture of Soweto.
A similar fair, the Soweto Homemakers Expo, was first held in 1983. This year the Absa Soweto Festival is highlighting and celebrating tourism in the township, and its 100-year history.
The festival is on daily from 10am to 8pm. Entrance is R20 for adults, R15 for students and R5 for children. Rockville residents, however, received letters giving them access for R7.
The festival is in Vundla Street, Rockville. From Baragwanath Hospital, travel down Old Potchefstroom Road, turn right into Ntuli Street and then right into Vundla Street. For more information call 011 646 5630.
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