In an effort to boost economic growth and strengthen regional ties, Uganda is set to host the East Africa Trade and Investment Forum, which will take place from January 15th to 17th, 2024, at the Serena Kampala Hotel.
The forum, organised as a high-level side event on the margins of the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77 + China Summits, will bring together key stakeholders, including distinguished delegates from the South, the business community, and government officials.
The three-day event will kick off with a trade exhibition, showcasing East Africa’s industrial potential and highlighting key sectors such as tourism, agri-value addition, mineral beneficiation, oil and gas, and ICT. The exhibition aims to attract investments by demonstrating the region’s services and ICT potential, as well as showcasing lucrative investment opportunities.
The first day’s programme will include B2B (business-to-business) and B2G (business-to-government) engagements, providing a platform for collaboration and partnership building among South-to-South companies.
According to Ambassador Elly Kamahungye from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “The second day will focus on the Investment Forum, featuring a fireside chat format to unpack the offerings of East Africa. Notable speakers include H.E. Ahunna Eziakonwa, the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General, and key industry leaders such as Mr. Humphrey Nzeyi and Prof. Benedict Oramah. Panel discussions will be held to share investment opportunities for export-led growth, investment opportunities in various sectors, and innovative financing for investment and trade.”
The third day will continue the Investment Forum with a panel discussion on bankable projects in East Africa, featuring investment authorities from partner states of the East African Community. The session aims to attract key investors and financiers, including representatives from AfDB, Afrexim, Africa Finance Corporation, and the Islamic Development Bank.
The outcomes of the forum anticipate achieving collaborative efforts towards enhancing trade and investment in the East African region. The event promises to be a significant platform for fostering economic growth, strengthening regional ties, and attracting important investments to East Africa.
