UMA’s Mbale trade fair to drive investment, value addition in Eastern Uganda
The Chairman of the Uganda Manufacturers Association, Aga Sekalala Jnr, said the trade fair highlights the importance of industrialisation and formal trade in achieving Uganda’s long-term development goals.
The 14th Eastern Region Trade Fair has been officially launched at Mbale Resort Hotel, with organisers calling on businesses and the public to participate in what is expected to be a major platform for trade, innovation and investment.
The annual event, organised under the Uganda Manufacturers Association, is aimed at promoting industrialisation, value addition and regional trade as part of efforts to drive Uganda’s economic transformation.
Speaking at the launch, Regina Namuwonge, Chairperson of the Organising Committee, said this year’s trade fair will bring together key players from across sectors to unlock opportunities in Eastern Uganda.
“We are building Uganda’s economic future, one innovation at a time, and this year’s trade fair will bring together business, innovation, and opportunity to drive growth in Eastern Uganda,” she said.
She invited the public, entrepreneurs and investors to actively participate in the exhibition, noting that the fair will showcase a wide range of products, services and innovations.
Focus on industrialisation and regional growth
The Chairman of the Uganda Manufacturers Association, Aga Sekalala Jnr, said the trade fair highlights the importance of industrialisation and formal trade in achieving Uganda’s long-term development goals.
He noted that manufacturing, investment and partnerships remain central to advancing regional integration and the government’s Ten-Fold Growth Agenda.
“This platform continues to advance industrial growth, promote value addition, and connect our businesses to wider markets,” Sekalala said.
Platform for business linkages
Also speaking at the launch, Ezra Muhumuza Rubanda emphasised the role of the trade fair in linking local enterprises to regional and international markets.
“Together, we drive Uganda’s industrial transformation forward,” he said, adding that such platforms are critical in strengthening Uganda’s competitiveness and expanding market access for local products.
The Eastern Region Trade Fair has over the years grown into a key business event, attracting exhibitors from manufacturing, agriculture, services and technology sectors.
Organisers say this year’s edition will focus on innovation, enterprise development and partnerships, positioning Mbale as a strategic hub for trade and investment in eastern Uganda.
