Written By Lisa Murimi
Over 1,500 exhibitors from East African Community (EAC) partner states are showcasing their businesses at the 24th annual EAC MSMEs Trade Fair in Juba, South Sudan.Â
The event, a vital platform for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), aims to boost market access and regional economic integration among the EAC’s eight member states, according to organizers.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Wycliffe Oparanya, highlighted the trade fair’s theme—”Promotion of Unique Innovations and Skills Development Amongst EAC MSMEs”—as an alignment with Kenya’s “Buy Kenya, Build Kenya” agenda.
The fair provides 483 Kenyan MSMEs with opportunities to gain market insights and forge cross-border business connections.
With the addition of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Somalia, the EAC now represents a market of over 312 million people and a combined GDP of approximately $305 billion, further linking it to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Trade and Industry Minister Ambassador Joseph Majak of South Sudan commended the event, emphasizing its role in strengthening regional ties and supporting MSME-driven economic integration.
The 10-day fair includes exhibitions, cultural showcases, and forums designed to facilitate business and policy partnerships across East Africa.
