After 10 eventful days in Juba, the curtains came down on the 24th EAC MSMEs Trade Fair on 5th November 2024. This year’s trade fair showcased an extraordinary range of products and innovations, celebrating the ingenuity and resilience of East African entrepreneur from the eight partner states of the EAC.
The ceremony was graced by the chief guest, Hon. Amb. Joseph Moum Majak, Minister of Trade and Industry for the Republic of South Sudan. In his keynote address, he praised the trade fair as an essential platform for MSMEs to exchange knowledge, network, and foster collaboration. “The participation of MSMEs at this fair underscores the indomitable spirit of East Africa and highlights innovations that are the pride of our continent,” he noted. Minister Majak further expressed South Sudan’s pride in hosting the event, noting its role in bridging markets, expanding opportunities, and driving shared prosperity across the region.
Hon. Amb. Joseph Moum Majak, the Minister of Trade and Industry from the Republic of South Sudan, and Hon. Veronica Nduva, Director of Customs at the EAC Secretariat, Ms. Flavia Busingye giving their remarks.
The event celebrated outstanding innovations by MSMEs, with Mr. Festus Muia Vati, founder of Climax Rewinders from Machakos County, Kenya, recognized as the fair’s overall winner and Best Exhibitor. His achievements in metal fabrication and manufacturing of windmills for power generation and water pumping set him apart and exemplified the innovative spirit of East African MSMEs.
Mr. Festus Muia Vati founder of Climax Rewinders based in Machakos County receiving his reward.
Minister Majak encouraged partner states to build on the momentum created by the fair, advocating for continued collaboration and strong support for MSMEs to help them scale and expand across borders. “Through collaboration, we all grow together,” he affirmed, commending the EAC Secretariat for organizing an event that serves as a beacon of opportunity for the African continent.
The trade fair also offered a unique cultural experience, with exhibitors from all partner states performing traditional dances that celebrated the region’s rich heritage and diversity. Minister Majak emphasized the value of preserving cultural heritage: “As we strive for progress, we must not forget our cultures, for our culture is our pride.”
Highlights of the various cultural dances from the represented partner states
This year’s EAC MSMEs Trade Fair set a new standard for future events, showcasing unity, resilience, and a shared commitment to regional prosperity. The spirit of this gathering will carry forward, fostering collaboration and innovation to uplift East Africa as a whole.
