SMEs Expo: Experts to discuss recovery strategies for businesses
FSME executive director, John Walugembe, stressed that it’s important to discuss recovery strategies for businesses since they were hit hard by COVID-19.
SMEs Expo: Experts to discuss recovery strategies for businesses
NewVision Reporter
@NewVision
The Executive Director, Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises (FSME), John Walugembe, has challenged policymakers not to sit back and watch businesses collapse during these unprecedented times, but rather avail platforms on which they can be guided to success.
Speaking ahead of the 3rd edition of the SMEs Expo scheduled for 20th to 23rd July at the UMA Multipurpose Hall, Walugembe stressed that it’s important to discuss recovery strategies for businesses since they were hit hard by COVID-19 and the current global economic instability.
“As a federation, we are seeking to find lasting solutions for struggling businesses. During COVID-19, stimulus packages were announced but this did not benefit SMEs, we need practical solutions and this can be attained through such gatherings. Also, we must have recommendations to share with policymakers like URA.”
Walugembe adds that, unlike previous exhibitions, this edition will focus on showcasing products and also hold discussions with policymakers.
“We expect to have the commissioner general URA, John Rujoki Musinguzi, and other officials from the Ministry of Finance. These conversations will focus on the policy environment these businesses operate in, opportunities that come with African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and finally digitalization plus financial inclusion,” Walugembe added.
The three-day event is expected to come up with recommendations that will be shared by government and other stakeholders.
The annual event was last held in 2020 before the outbreak of COVID-19 which imposed limitations on movement and greatly affected business operations. It will run under the theme: Charting a way forward for recovery from COVID-19.