Naledi Fruit and Vegetable Market to Open in Gaborone North

Naledi Fruit and Vegetable Market to Open in Gaborone NNorth. A new chapter in Botswana’s agricultural marketing will begin on 3 July with the official opening of the Naledi Fruit and Vegetable Market, a facility designed to connect farmers directly with consumers while ensuring access to fresh, safe produce year-round.

Market representative Mr. Samir Pelwan explained that the primary objective is to create a one-stop marketplace offering a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Produce sold at the market will undergo regular testing for pesticide residues and water quality to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. “We want consumers to have confidence in the products they buy here,” he said.

The market has capacity for 76 vendors, alongside facilities for a butchery and a spice shop. It will also accommodate hawkers, restaurants, catering companies, small-scale traders, and home-based businesses. A children’s playground has been included to enhance convenience for vendors and customers.

Mr. Pelwan noted that construction faced delays due to heavy rains and electricity connection challenges, but the project was completed within nine months. He added that while some uncertainty remains because the concept is new to Botswana, management is focused on raising awareness and helping both farmers and consumers understand how the facility will operate.

The market has designated space for organic produce, with other sections for conventionally grown crops. By bringing producers together in one location, management hopes to improve production planning and reduce issues of overproduction. Stall rentals are set at P1,500 per month, covering services such as water, sanitation, security, and other amenities.

Currently, about 50 percent of vendor space has been booked, while all retail shop spaces are fully taken. Discussions are ongoing with around 300 interested farmers, and confidence in the project continues to grow