Over 300 manufacturers, traders and distributors have registered to participate in the 13th Eastern Region Trade Fair (ERTF), which is aimed at promoting locally manufactured products.

The fair, which is due to take place from 14th to 23rd June 2024 at Mbale SS Grounds, is expected to bring in an average of 50,000 visitors from Mbale, Jinga, Soroti, Iganga, Tororo and other surrounding areas.

Eddie Ssenkumba, the UMA board member in charge of communications, marketing and events, said they are expecting a range of new products which include locally made phones, watches, televisions, electric meters, electric motor bikes and rechargeable batteries.

Also expected are locally produced irrigation systems, water treatment technology, motor trucks, Tuk Tuk and food mills for maize, cassava, and wheat.

“This exhibition is aimed at facilitating business-to-business linkages where manufacturers and supplies of products from all sectors will meet under one roof,” he said.

(L-R) Patrick Ezaga, Director Communications, Deposit Protection Fund of Uganda, Eddie Kakumba Chairman Communication and Events Committee Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), and Ajay Jain General Manager Crest Tanks addressing a press conference regarding the trade show to be held in Mbale at UMA head offices in Kampala on 23, May 2024. Photo by Wilfred Sanya

He added that it will also produce launch opportunities in the eastern region. “Local industries, especially those that are located in the Mbale Industrial Park, keep on introducing new products which they have pledged to launch in a big way. The ERTF is the ultimate opportunity which makes the face-to-face interaction possible,” said Ssenkumba.

The trade fair, which will be launched under the theme, “Facilitating BUBU through Innovation and Value Addition” aims to highlight the role of science, technology and innovation to drive growth of locally made products.

Sponsors of the ERTF include Steel and Tube Industries Ltd, Crestanks Limited, Eurofoam, Liao Shen Industrial Park-Kapeeka, Simba Automotives, and Deposit Protection Fund.

Participating sectors include construction, automobile, agricultural machinery, foods and beverages, packaging materials, plastics, health, confectionery, ICT and alcohol and spirits.

Others include personal care products, electricals, logistics and transportation, stationery, academia, automobile, furniture, leather goods manufacturers, dairy and dairy products, fast moving consumer goods, and exporters among others.

With entrance fee of sh2,000 per head, the fair is expected to be launched by Rebecca Kadaga, the first deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community.