Kenya and Nigeria to go head-on head with Russia at Cape Town Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa 2025

March 18, 2025 in Business, Companies, Land & Agriculture, Trade & Industry by Editor

Kenya and Nigeria are among eight African countries that have so far registered to attend the second edition of Africa’s premier organic products showcase, the Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa that is scheduled to run at the Cape Town  International Convention Centre from March 28-30.

The event, which will also be attended by Ghana, Lesotho, Botswana, Congo Republic, Sierra Leone and Namibia, has attracted considerable international interest, and promises to be a face-off between African exhibitors and  their Russian counterparts, led by Russia’s Department for the Development of Organic products,  which has fielded a large delegation.

According to the organisers, the Russian display will offer “a rare opportunity to gain insights into Russia’s rapidly expanding organic sector,” while the Russians will “actively explore new business opportunities and potential partnerships, as well as source new products and suppliers.”

Led by Aleksandr Chumak, Deputy Head of RusQuality, the delegation includes Alexander Moskalenko, Representative of the Ministry of
Agriculture of the Russian Federation in South Africa; Vladimir Uvaidov, Director of RusQuality’s organic development arm; and Maksim Uvaidov,
Secretary of State and Deputy Minister of Agriculture; their presentation at the conference will explore Russia’s evolving regulatory framework and market opportunities, with the country’s organic sector growing at 10-12pc annually and domestic production reaching €35 million by 2020—a near nine-fold leap since 2012.

South African-based Tasili will bring Morocco’s rich beauty heritage to the Expo, showcasing organic cold-pressed oils and traditional skincare essentials.
Co-owner Ghameeda Idalene promises “a sensory experience” with live demonstrations and exclusive discounts, introducing attendees to
authentic Moroccan wellness traditions. Meanwhile, Oud Fragrances will transport visitors to the aromatic world of Arabian perfumery.

Marketing Manager Heba Mallah notes the rising popularity of oud—dubbed “liquid gold”—with opportunities to sample
fragrances, blend custom scents, and dive into the art of perfumery.

Dubbed a feast for the senses, the Expo invites attendees to see, touch, taste, and smell the best of organic living.

This year’s Expo blends international insights with Southern Africa’s vibrant organic community. The Southern African Botanical
Products Association (SABPA) will host two panel discussions, joined by expert-led talks from the South African Organic Sector Organisation
(SAOSA), Standard Bank, Halaal Research Council, Mushroom Academy, Food Lover’s Market, Ideation Station, Discovery, Vitant, Ecocert, Feed Me
Green, Miros, and Plant Based Treaty SA.

Topics range from sustainable agriculture and financial strategies for organic businesses to the future of natural skincare.

Beyond its diverse exhibitors, the Expo doubles as a vital networking platform. Warren Hickinbotham, head of sponsorship and partnerships,
says, “This event is about forging partnerships and sparking growth. It’s where businesses connect with new markets, share expertise, and
push the organic industry forward.”

From industry professionals to eco-conscious consumers, the Expo offers a packed three-day experience. Highlights include hands-on workshops,
organic certification insights, and sustainable farming discussions.
A multitude of corresponding activities are also planned to educate, entertain and enhance exhibition offerings. These include: international
product showcases, demonstrations, presentation theatre, and book signings, to name a few.

Yoga enthusiasts can join Elaine Seidel’s Fusion Vinyasa class, which blends influences from Iyengar, Synergy, and Forrest yoga traditions.
Gideon le Roux’s flowing Tai Ji session meanwhile offers a meditative movement experience, complemented by his expertise in acupuncture and
traditional Chinese practices.