AU Moves Trade Fair from Kampala to Cairo, Cites Poor Infrastructure

Cairo has been announced as the new venue for the 3rd African Trade Fair, replacing the original location of Kampala, Uganda. The decision was made by the African Union following consultations with member states and the trade fair organizing committee.
The African Trade Fair is a biennial event aimed at promoting intra-African trade and showcasing the continent’s products and services to the world. The first two editions were held in Accra, Ghana, and Nairobi, Kenya, respectively.
The event, which is scheduled for November 2023, will bring together businesses, policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders from across Africa and beyond. It is expected to provide a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and business deals.
According to the African Union Commissioner for Trade and Industry, Albert Muchanga, Cairo was selected as the new venue due to its strategic location and excellent infrastructure. “Cairo is a gateway to Africa and the Middle East, and it has world-class facilities for hosting international events. We are confident that it will provide a conducive environment for the success of the trade fair,” he said.

The decision to change the venue was received with mixed reactions in Uganda, with some expressing disappointment and others understanding the need to prioritize the success of the event. The Ugandan government expressed its commitment to supporting the new venue and participating in the trade fair.
The African Trade Fair is expected to boost intra-African trade, which is currently low compared to other regions. The African Union has set a target of increasing intra-African trade by 50% by 2030. The trade fair is one of the initiatives aimed at achieving this goal.