By Prossy Nandudu
Value-added products of Ugandan origin are the centre of attraction at this year’s International Trade Fair.
Stationed in the UMA Multipurpose Hall, innovators mainly the youth are showcasing products from cassava, sim sim, okra, soybeans, and fruit juices, processed and packaged honey among others.
According to Abaru Brenda, from Arua District, who sells honey, sim sim oil and sunflower oil among others, there is a higher demand compared to other products being exhibited at the trade fair.
She explained that from the second day of the trade fair to date, she has mostly sold food products compared to crafts like bags, sandals, and dresses among others.
The story is not any different for Divine Organic, a female-led enterprise from Lira, that is processing cassava to fine flour and then vitamin A-rich sweet potatoes into flour that can be used for baking, as well as porridge.
Other valued added products from Ugandans being showcased include processed vegetables like okra powder, food supplements for the management of arthritis, crafts, soybeans and dairy products among others.
Although the trade fair has registered fairly big numbers, key attractions at the trade fair like saloons and haircare products, that used to dominate the trade fair are no more.
This time around, that section has instead been occupied by Kawumu Leather Tannery and Aunt Porridge, value-added products from Uganda.
This year’s trade fair is running under the theme Driving Manufacturing and Trade Efficiency through Digital Transformation, organized by the Uganda Manufacturer’s Association (UMA) and other partners.
