Women in business from 21 countries across Africa have joined their counterparts in Uganda to participate in the 3rd Annual COMESA Women Trade Fair that started Wednesday at the Uganda Museum in Kampala. 

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Connie Kekihembo, the Chief Executive Officer, Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Association Limited (UWEAL) noted that the trade fair and exhibition comes at a time when women like their male counterparts are recovering from the impacts of COVID-19 which ravaged businesses across the country. 

“We are glad that this year the trade fair is taking place, of course as you all know we were interrupted by COVID-19 but now we are focusing on the road to recovery. We are offering our women a platform for policy dialogue on strategies to address barriers constraining women and youth entrepreneurs from maximizing opportunities for regional and cross-border trade.’’ 

A woman arranging crafts at the ongoing trade fair in Kampala

The three-day event started with a panel of experts discussing the role of government, civil society and financial institutions in positioning Women SMEs to benefit from the African continent. 

Most of them agreed that despite the numerous outlets of financial institutions, the lending rates and demand for huge collaterals have continued to push women away from banks. 

The different products on display at the trade fair are African dresses, art and craft among several innovations by women in business. 

The trade fair will be officially opened on Thursday by Vice President Jessica Alupo.