By Stephen Wandera Ouma

Exhibitors have been cautioned against conmen who may extort money from them in camouflage as Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) staff incharge of stall booking.  

Addressing journalists, Friday September 29th, 2023, Dr Ezra Muhumuza Rubanda, the Executive Director, Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) said the trade show is fully booked.

“The multipurpose hall and open space are full. A total of 1018 exhibitors have booked and over 300,000 visitors are expected to attend,” he said.

Dr Rubanda said the UMA 29th Uganda International Trade Fair is on the theme: showcasing digital transformation and Innovation to drive manufacturing and trade efficiency.

He further explained, “The UMA expo starts on Tuesday 3rd October to Tuesday 10th October 2023, at the UMA Show Grounds, Lugogo.

It will spotlight cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices that are reshaping the landscape of manufacturing and trade, not only locally but on a global scale.”

“Studies have shown that a substantial 42.2% growth in SMEs can be attributed to the adoption of information technological advancements. This underscores the transformative power of technology in driving efficiency, increasing production capacity, generating employment, and ultimately fostering business growth.”

Dr Rubanda said in light of the dynamic global trends, it is imperative that Ugandan SMEs recognize the role that digital transformation and innovation play in enhancing both manufacturing and trade efficiency.

He further explained, “We are truly honoured to welcome 30 countries to this prestigious event. Their participation includes representation from India, South Korea, Taiwan, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, UAE, Lebanon, Iran, Pakistan, China, South Africa, Rwanda, among others, is a testament to the international significance of our trade fair.”

“A special acknowledgment goes to the Rwanda Development Board, whose presence under the Rwanda Country Pavilion is of high significance. This return marks a breakthrough for the business community in Uganda, rekindling avenues for collaboration and reinforcing the potential for robust trade between our nations,” Dr Rubanda said.

He also revealed that President Yoweri K. Museveni is expected to open the trade show on 5th October.

“Similarly, for the closing ceremony on 10th October, we are privileged to host Dr. Peter Mathuki, the Secretary General of the East African Community. The public is invited to visit the UMA trade fair. This is an exceptional opportunity to get insights from industry leaders, exchange ideas, and establish invaluable business partnerships.

He said the trade fair creates opportunities for businesses, investors and stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and explore potential partnerships.

 Dr Rubanda said the public has got an opportunity to be educated on key issues such as trade facilitation services from government agencies.

“URSB, UNBS, URA, NIRA and PPDA will be here to sensitise members on the available opportunities and services. Unlike the previous fairs, URA has dedicated its staff to resolve all tax related issues, ledger reconciliation, EFRIS issues, tax disputes among others at the fair.

The National Identification Registration Authority (NIRA) has assigned over 30 staff to address issues related to national identification, birth certificates in real time during the eight days of the fair,” he said.

Regarding security, Dr Rubanda said, “Last year we had no incidents regarding security and we have partnered with Uganda Police Forces to replicate the same. Security Agencies have been represented here to give assurance on security and safety of the show grounds.”

UMA has also partnered with Stanbic Bank because they are one of the leading digital transformations through their FlexiPay platform in the banking sector.

“They will offer financial literacy to the general public. The training will also focus on how savings and retirement benefits can be channelled into meaningful investment like manufacturing.

Entrance tickets: U-Trax has been contracted to issue electronic tickets using Point of Sale (POS) machines that will be placed at the entry points of the fair. Entrance Fee is only 10,000.

Platinum partners: TotalEnergies Ltd, and Science Technology and Innovation Secretariat.

Gold partners: Private Sector Foundation Uganda and Ministry of Trade Industry and Cooperatives.

Entertainment Partner: Uganda Breweries Ltd.

Silver Partner: Stanbic Bank

Health Partner: UMC Victoria Hospital (First Aid services with standby ambulance to attend to emergencies)

Bronze Partners: Uganda Baati Ltd, Uganda Insurers Association (UIA), Simba Automotives Ltd.

Media Partners: NBS TV, Vision Group, Node Group and KBS Tv.