Rwabwogo Launches International Buyers’ Week Set to Unlock $1Bn in Trade

KAMPALA — Uganda has officially launched the Uganda Connect International Buyers’ Week, a landmark event aimed at linking local exporters with international buyers and investors to expand the country’s footprint in global trade.

Organised under the auspices of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), the launch unveiled the vision, objectives, and program for the Buyers’ Week, which will run from November 25–28, 2025.

The initiative is designed to showcase Uganda’s products and services to the world, promote investment and tourism linkages, and position the country as a competitive export hub in Africa.

Mr Odrek Rwabwogo speaking after the launch

PACEID Chairman Odrek Rwabwogo, while speaking at the launch, revealed that the committee is targeting at least $1 billion in trade and investment deals during the week.

“The Buyers’ Week is aimed at showing what a country can do when demand increases,” Rwabwogo said, adding, “Capacity comes from how many businesses in a country can compete beyond its borders.”

The event will feature an exhibition of export-ready Ugandan goods, business-to-business (B2B) engagements, and forums focusing on trade finance, logistics, and value addition.

It is expected to attract international buyers, investors, trade agencies, and regional delegations exploring partnerships across agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services sectors.

Rwabwogo emphasized that the Buyers’ Week matches President Yoweri Museveni’s vision of transforming Uganda from a raw-material exporter to an industrial and export-led economy.

Today’s launch event drew participation from government officials, business leaders, exporters, and representatives from trade promotion agencies.

GCIC’s Ms Joellah Anshemeza at the launch of the Uganda Connect

The Uganda Connect International Buyers’ Week will serve as a strategic platform to accelerate Uganda’s export growth and strengthen the country’s integration into global value chains.