The Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) has officially opened the 31st Uganda International Trade Fair (UGITF) 2025 under the theme “Sustainable Industrialization for Inclusive Growth, Employment and Wealth Creation.” The fair, which began on October 2, 2025, was officially opened by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija, who commended Uganda’s manufacturers for their vital role in driving industrial transformation.
In his remarks, Hon. Matia Kasaija emphasized that sustainable industrialization remains the cornerstone of job creation and wealth generation in Uganda. “By embracing innovation, efficiency, and value addition, Uganda’s manufacturers can drive the country toward true self-reliance and global competitiveness. The Uganda International Trade Fair demonstrates that our manufacturing sector is not only growing but is ready to compete globally,” he noted.
The Uganda International Trade Fair stands as more than just an exhibition. It is a transformative platform for manufacturers to showcase innovation, launch new products, and expand their access to regional and international markets. With agriculture, science-driven manufacturing, and the Made-in-Uganda e-commerce drive at its core, this year’s fair marks a decisive step in the country’s journey from import dependence to global competitiveness.
Aga Sekalala Jr., UMA Board Chairperson, reaffirmed UMA’s commitment to positioning the fair as a hub for innovation and collaboration, noting that “This year’s edition of the trade fair is unlike any other. Our manufacturers are not just showcasing products; they are unveiling innovations, technologies, and partnerships that reflect Uganda’s readiness to lead in sustainable industrialization. The fair is truly a gateway for innovation, growth, and global competitiveness.”
Among the exhibitors is Plascon Uganda, which continues to play a leading role in promoting industrial excellence and innovation. The company, represented by Brand Manager Daniel Kayongo and Marketing Coordinator Benjamin Bicung, received an Appreciation Award as a Gold Sponsor of the Trade Fair. At the Plascon Pavilion, visitors are being treated to a vibrant showcase of the company’s full decorative and protective paint portfolio, ranging from interior and exterior emulsions to specialty undercoats, primers, texture finishes, and weatherproofing solutions.
In addition, Plascon is using its exhibition space to promote the 14th edition of its flagship customer engagement campaign, “Paint & Win,” inviting visitors to interact with the brand, ask questions, buy paint, and stand a chance to win cash prizes, motorbikes, and tricycles. Speaking during the event, Daniel Kayongo, Head of Marketing at Plascon Uganda, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s industrial and economic transformation. “As Plascon, we believe that colour is not just about aesthetics, it’s about progress. Our participation in the Uganda International Trade Fair reflects our commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability. We are proud to stand alongside other Ugandan manufacturers in building a more self-reliant and competitive economy,” said Kayongo. The fair has drawn participation from a wide range of other partners, including the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Information, Total Energies, Bank of Uganda, NIRA Uganda, MMI Steel, MTN Uganda, Unisteel, Crestanks, Hisense, and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC), among others. It continues to serve as a strategic
