Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), an umbrella body for manufacturers in the country has announced the resumption of the annual trade fair, with several additions and improvement.
In a press briefing held at UMA headquarters in Kampala, members of the board said that although covid-19 greatly affected most of their activities including trade shows for two years, they have gained enough experience to hold successful exhibitions.
During this year’s 28th edition of the trade show, UMA is expected to put much emphasis on digital transformation whereby several exhibitors who may not be able to make it physically at the show grounds, will be granted an opportunity to showcase their products virtually.
“Unlike the previous trade fairs, this year, we hope to have over 1000 exhbitors from both Uganda and outside with more than five country pavilions. In these pavilions, we shall be having more than 15 exhbitors from each country,” remarked Deo Kayemba, UMA Chairman.
Each country will have a separate day to exhbit their culture, food, dances among others.
“The fair will provide an opportunity to all members with new innovations and products which they have come up with in the past two years. So far, we already have five products awaiting launch,” Kayemba added.
Daniel Birungi, the Executive Director of UMA noted that although the trade fair’s main role is to showcase products and services, this year, they are going to ensure that they include sensitization of the public and manufacturers on the benefits of the the African Continental Free Trade Area whose operations is still a challenge to many.
“In recognition of the innovations that have come out of the country, this year’s fair will provide an in depth look at among others; the budding electric mobility industry in Uganda that has received global recognition. Show guests will have an opportunity to try out electric motor bikes made in Uganda as they share experience from the manufacturers,” Birungi said.
