The 18th Rwanda International Trade Fair (RITF 2015) which took place at Gikondo expo ground in Kigali ended on Wednesday 12th August with a colourful award giving ceremony where best exhibitors were recognised. The expo, which was organized by Rwanda’s Private Sector Federation (PSF) in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM) attracted more than 270.000 visitors during the 14 days.

The 18th edition of Rwanda International Trade Fair ended on the 12th August 2015 with a closing ceremony officiated by the minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Francois Kanimba.

According to PSF, this Trade Fair has occupied an important position in the calendar of events not only in Rwanda but also at international level. With 408 exhibitors, including a large number of foreign participants and more than 311,824 visitors all together, this makes it one of the largest Trade Fairs in this region, both in terms of participation, exhibitors as well as the number of visitors.

At the closing ceremony, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Honorable Francois Kanimba said that the expo has given chance for individ-uals and companies not only to showcase their products and services but also learn on how they can improve the quality of their products.

‘I am certain that Rwanda International Trade Fair is playing a critical role, as it not only pro-vides companies and individuals an occasion to showcase their  products but also an opportunity to benchmark with one another to improve their products’ quality and range’ Kanimba said. PSF chairman, Benjamin Gasamagera commended the number of exhibitors in the RITF 2015, saying it is one of the largest trade fairs in the region in terms of participation of exhibitors as well as number of visitors.

‘I have a conviction that this expo 2015 has made a significant impact on business in our country and has given momentum to all who visited it or got information through the media” he stressed.

Faizal BATURAT, who represented the foreign exhibitors, praised the enabling environment in the country, saying that this expo gave them a chance to explore the investment opportunities in Rwanda.

THE AWARDS:

MTN Rwanda scooped the overall best exhibitor award while Bralirwa and Rwanda Broad-casting Agency (RBA) in second and third place, respectively.

Also recognized for being the best in other categories were Rwanda Development Bank in the banking sector, Rwanda Social Security Board in the insurance sector, Ameki Color in manufacturing sector and Inyange Industries in the agri-business sector.  Ex-combatants were recognized for their handicrafts and Simba Supermarkets for their retail and distribution business.

Other top performers who were recognised include: Hippo Roofings – best exhibitor in customer care, Tigo – best in the ICT sector and RwandAir the most innovative exhibitor. KCB was awarded 3rd best exhibitor in the Custom-er Care Category and Bank of Kigali 2nd best exhibitor in the Banking Category while UAP scooped second best exhibitor in the Insurance / Social Service Category and ISPA Second Best exhibitor in ICT.

The Rwanda National Police, the Ministry of Trade and Industry and Britam were among the sponsors, who were also acknowledged for helping ensure the event was a success.