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Themed “Promotion of Unique Innovation and Skills Development among EAC MSMEs,” this year’s event aims to showcase the dynamism of small and medium-sized enterprises across the East African region.
The trade fair seeks to promote trade, investment, and economic growth within the region by providing a platform for entrepreneurs, businesses, and stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and explore new market opportunities.
The event draws participants from all EAC Member States, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, Uganda, Tanzania, and host nation South Sudan.
Speaking at the opening, South Sudan’s Vice President James Wani acknowledged the critical role of MSMEs in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering innovation.
“The micro, small and medium enterprises are the backbone of regional economic development and essential to achieving inclusive progress and prosperity, collectively,” Wani said.
He urged the EAC to encourage and support investment in MSMEs to accelerate regional industrialization and economic development.
“It is worthy this afternoon to emphasize the importance of trade fairs and exhibitions like this one in creating opportunities for businesses to showcase their products, access new markets, and form cross-border partnerships,” Wani said.
“Trade encourages businesses that embrace innovation and digitalization to stay competitive in the region and global market,” he added.
The Minister of Trade and Industries, Amb. Joseph Muom Majak said the event is a major milestone for South Sudan since joining the EAC in September 2016.
“The East African Community micro, small and medium enterprises trade fair exhibition serve as an energetic platform where artisans and entrepreneurs from across the region can display their respective innovations and skills, with 1,700 exhibitions coming together this year,” Muom said.
He noted that the event plays a critical role in fostering economic cooperation and transforming socioeconomic relations across the East African Community.
Annete Mutaawe, Deputy Secretary in charge of Customs, Trade, and Monetary Affairs, said the event is an opportunity for small-scale traders to shine, connect, and grow.
“Our measure of success will be evaluated through the number of sustainable partnerships delivered, new knowledge gained, the emergence of value chains, and of course, that they are all able to sell what they have worked hard to present to the market,” Mutaawe said.
