The National ICT Innovation Hub was proud to host the first Trade Afrika Market Day, a vibrant event dedicated to promoting local products, strengthening regional trade, and empowering Uganda’s small business community. The inaugural edition exceeded expectations and demonstrated the growing appetite for platforms that elevate homegrown enterprises.
Initially planned to host 50 businesses, the event showcased 90 exhibitors across categories such as agri-food products, textiles, fashion, beverages, arts and crafts, and wellness products. This remarkable turnout highlighted the enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit within the MSME community.
A significant milestone for this edition was the strong inclusion of women entrepreneurs; 90% of the participating businesses were women-led. This achievement underscores the event’s contribution to promoting gender-inclusive trade and building equitable economic opportunities within the region.
Although this year’s edition did not feature innovators from the innovation category as originally intended, the organizing team remains committed to strengthening outreach to startups and technology-driven businesses in future editions. This aligns with the National ICT Innovation Hub’s mission to support innovators with visibility, market access, and business development opportunities.
The event attracted an estimated 200 attendees, including entrepreneurs, corporate representatives, development partners, and individual buyers. For an inaugural edition, this turnout reflects strong community interest and the growing demand for platforms that connect producers to markets and foster cross-border trade.
Trade Afrika Market Day reaffirmed the importance of regional collaboration, market-led growth, and community-driven initiatives in strengthening Africa’s trade ecosystem. The National ICT Innovation Hub remains committed to supporting such platforms and empowering innovators and MSMEs to scale locally and beyond.
Building strong markets, supporting homegrown enterprises, and powering Uganda’s innovation ecosystem, one event at a time.
Winfred Nankanja, National Guidance Officer