By Bullen Bala
The EAC Expo has a long history that dates back to 1999, when the Treaty for the establishment of the East African Community (EAC) was signed. Since then, it has grown to become one of the major trade shows that showcase the typical cultural abilities of its member states.
The fair has traditionally been a regional platform for countries to parade their innovations in the East African Community Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade Fair. The EAC MSMEs promotion brings together various artisans from all of the Partner States.
On 26th October 2024, the East Africa Trade 2024 was launched in Juba, South Sudan, the first of its kind since the country joined the regional block. Arguably one of the EAC’s Greatest Shows. The 10 days event, which is the 24th of its kind in the region, kicked off with lively cultural performances and key speeches.
But after hosting it for the first time, what does that signify for South Sudan? And what role has it even had in the survival and economic success of South Sudan?
Dr. James Wani Igga, the Vice President of South Sudan and the head of the nation’s Economic Cluster, said the expo widened the country’s economic integration, which will have a lasting effect.
“MSMEs are the backbone of regional economic development and ways of achieving inclusive. The corporation in trade and business can lay significant foundations for stronger political ties,” Said Dr. Igga
He emphasizes how crucial it is for the EAC to promote and assist MSMEs investment in order to increase regional industrialization and economic diversification.
“In South Sudan, we firmly believed that our ongoing efforts were focused on economic integration, which is the primary tactic for achieving political unity, sustainable growth, poverty alleviation, and long-term stability in our region.” Dr. Igga, added that MSMEs are crucial for promoting innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
Different product exhibits at Freedom Hall in Juba at the EAC Trade Shows (Photo: King News)
Jean Gordon Soro, Executive Director of the South Sudan Entrepreneur Association (SSEA), said the exhibitions have had huge impact, one of which has been to strengthen and expand the country’s economy.
“I think it’s more than just the trade fair. The event offered us an opportunity to show off our capabilities,” Ms. Soro said in an exclusive interview.
She believes that many exhibitors will promote South Sudan’s potential, which would draw in direct investors, given that it serves as a regional trade hub that links all of its member states and beyond.
“I believe the country’s reputation may grow even further after hosting it successfully. And definitely, it has energized different business sectors.”
According to her, the event has attracted at least 300 South Sudanese MSME exhibitors and has demonstrated a notable expansion in the nation’s economy.
“Yeah, I am very happy that at least this is the first time from the start we have at least I have 300 exhibitors, and it is a great achievement, and it has enhanced South Sudan’s economic growth and resilience,” she said.
South Sudanese female exhibitors with their product samples at the EAC Juba trade fair (Photo: King News)
Ms. Flavia Busingye, Director of Customs at the EAC Secretariat, acknowledged South Sudan’s commitment to hosting the Exhibition.
According to the Director of Customs at the EAC Secretariat, Ms. Flavia Busingye, the exhibition in Juba clearly demonstrated how EAC businesses are utilizing state-of-the-art production methods and raising the standard of their goods, indicating a promising future for the sector.
“It is clear that the Juba expo indicated that EAC business is adopting advanced production processes and enhancing product quality, indicating a promising future for the sector in South Sudan and EAC as a whole,” she said.
The EAC representative urged partner states to actively promote accessible investment opportunities for MSMEs that are widely visible to publishers across the region through media platforms. She encourages exhibitors to continue advocating for cooperation, creativity, and intervention.
“Let us continue building networks, sharing knowledge, and nurturing the partnership established during the exhibitions in Juba.”
In order to make sure that MSMEs in East Africa are ready to grow in a market that is becoming more and more competitive, she advised the MSMEs to use digital technologies to widen their market appeal.
The pictures captured throughout the event exhibit many products and cultures (Photo: King News).
Joseph Muom, South Sudan’s Minister of Trade, said the nation’s initial EAC Expo was significant for its cultural influence as well as its economic and tourism advantages.
“It encourages a more open attitude towards diverse cultures and principles, reflecting the rapid changes in EAC,” he said.
For Muon, the region’s identity is changing from being perceived as locked off to being more hospitable and flexible.
He urged the exhibitors to spread awareness of the value of cultural diplomacy in order to establish connections with many people and countries outside of the conventional channels for successful business dealings.
“We need to use our cultural exchange to show the government’s understanding of the importance of cultural diplomacy to connect with different peoples and nations beyond traditional means,” Muon added in his closing remark.
Joseph Moum Majak, South Sudan’s Minister of Trade and Industry, joined Burundi’s cultural dance during closing in Juba (Photo: King News)
The EAC Trade Expo in Juba features a traditional dance performed by South Sudanese at Freedom Hall (Photo: King Media News).
South Sudan is experiencing a sole socio-economic transformation in which trade takes center stage in the country’s massive diversification efforts.
Aligning with the government’s strategy to reduce its oil dependence, the EAC Expo was among the strategies that many believed would make South Sudan one of the regional centers for trade, travel, and commerce.
The sense of pride and confidence among South Sudanese with its neighbors is noticeable, especially after Juba was chosen to host this year’s Expo. This moment highlighted the country’s desire to share its rich culture and advancements with the rest of the country, challenging old stereotypes of a secluded society.
Hosting the Expo is a significant opportunity for South Sudan to showcase its cultural richness and diversity to visitors from around the region.
Textiles, industry productions, artists, crafts, agro-business, and product quality were the products of the expos, which reflected the MSMEs’ evulsion.
The event drew participants from all across EAC Member States, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, the Federal Republic of Somalia, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, and the host nation, South Sudan.