The first Kampala-Kigali expo opened on Saturday, January 25, in Kampala, Uganda, with a call to remove non-tariff barriers to trade as well as build greater collaborations among entrepreneurs in both countries.

The expo is a premier event that brings together Uganda and Rwanda’s brightest minds, businesses, and cultural leaders to celebrate unity, innovation, and growth.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ismael Baguma, who is the Deputy High Commissioner of Rwanda to Uganda, told the exhibitors that his country remains committed to addressing any barriers that hinder the flow of regional trade, including non-tariff barriers.

"Beyond commerce, this expo represents something greater - the unity and resilience of our people. Trade is not just about transactions, it’s about building relationships, learning from one another, sharing values, and creating a future where everyone can strive,” he said.

Uganda's Permanent Representative at the United Nations, Amb. Adonia Ayebare, urged the exhibitors to view the exhibition not as just a platform to showcase their products, but as an opportunity to build enduring partnerships that uplift communities and create lasting change.

"Let us prioritize creating infrastructure that facilitates connectivity, reduces trade barriers, and encourages collaboration,” Ayebare said.

"It is essential that our governments also invest in skills development and mentorship programmes to equip our people for the demands of the modern economy.”

Eric Byiringiro, a Rwandan exhibitor dealing in real estate and construction materials, said he benefited greatly from the exhibition through exchange of ideas with his Ugandan counterparts.

"I met new clients and networked well with counterparts from Rwanda,” said Poshia Kirezi, the Manager of ITOTO cosmetics, a company based in Kampala.

Canary Mugume, one of the organisers of the event, said they plan to hold the event twice a year, with the next one happening in Kigali in October this year.

"After the reopening of the Uganda-Rwanda border, trade has been picking up, so we thought we should have people-centered events that increase collaboration among the young entrepreneurs of both countries,” he said.

The Kampala-Kigali expo aims at empowering Uganda and Rwanda by creating a dynamic, multi-sector platform that promotes trade, innovation, and collaboration, organisers said.