Some of the stakeholders at a press conference.

Overview:

As manufacturers and traders gather in Mbale, Uganda, the 12th UMA ERTF if a platform for businesses to exhibit their products and contribute to the growth and promotion of locally manufactured goods.

The 12th UMA Eastern Region Trade Fair (ERTF) organised by the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) has kicked off on Thursday, marking the revival of the regional business development event that had been halted due to Covid-19.

Held at the Mbale S.S Grounds, the trade fair will showcase the achievements, innovations, and products of local manufacturers under the theme “Celebrating Local Manufacturing Excellence.”

As manufacturers and traders gather in Mbale, Uganda, the 12th UMA ERTF if a platform for businesses to exhibit their products and contribute to the growth and promotion of locally manufactured goods. The event aims to strengthen interconnections within the trade industry, providing an opportunity for participants to showcase their products and services throughout the one-week duration.

UMA’s Executive Director, Dr. Ezra Rubanda, while addressing the press, emphasized the significance of the ERTF in promoting local manufacturing and encouraging the growth of the industry.

The trade fair allows manufacturers and suppliers from various sectors to connect with consumers, facilitate business-to-business linkages, launch new products, and acquire spontaneous orders, leading to increased sales revenue.

The 12th ERTF features over 100 exhibitors representing diverse sectors, including Construction, Automobile, Agricultural Machinery, Foods & Beverages, Packaging Materials, Plastics, Health, Confectionery, ICT, Alcohol & Spirits, Personal Care Products, Electricals, Logistics & Transportation, Stationery, Academia, Furniture, Leather Goods Manufacturers, Dairy & Dairy Products, Fast Moving Consumer Goods, and Exporters, among others. The participation of 22 foreign exhibitors from Kenya, Nigeria, India, and Tanzania further enhances international exchange and collaboration opportunities.

Some of the exhibitors

Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) and Sino Industrial Park, Mbale (Tian Tang group, Com Foam, Grace Textiles, M-One, HongHai Wood) are platinum sponsors . Ms. Mary Babirye, Trade Finance Manager at KCB, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the event and affirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting manufacturers, agents, and suppliers through tailored banking services. With a regional presence in Rwanda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Congo, and Kenya, KCB Bank aims to facilitate trade and drive economic growth in the region.

The 12th UMA Eastern Region Trade Fair expects to attract approximately 50,000 visitors, providing an excellent platform for manufacturers to engage with consumers and receive instant feedback. The event not only celebrates the achievements of local manufacturers but also serves as a benchmarking opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the manufacturing sector in Uganda.