Foreign exhibitors at the ongoing 15-day Expo 2023 in Rubavu District, organised by Western Province and held at Lake Kivu Public Beach, have praised the security measures in place despite the conflict in neighboring DR Congo.
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Some of the exhibitors who spoke to The New Times praised the safety in Rubavu town, contrary to social media and some media reports before their arrival.
Zaher Bouobaida, an Egyptian carpet exhibitor, said: "It is safe here, there is security compared to what we heard in media reports and social media. Clients are increasing, and we have made a profit within the four past days. It is nice here and security is granted, our goods are safe,” he said.
He, however, suggested that it would be better if "tents were well-organised to provide enough space for clients to easily visit stands. No pedestrian space was provided per tent.”
Mike Jados, a Congolese cross-border transport operator and resident of Himbi in Goma town who spoke to The New Times while checking on his colleagues at their stand, said, "It’s a good opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their products, meet new people, hence have their businesses thrive.
"It’s good they [exhibitors] cut on ordinary prices, and organisers can consider it for next editions.”
"Without Rwanda, there is no Goma as transit goods pass through Rubavu town, war has no solution, and residents depend on us in other ways.”
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Local exhibitor Faustan Igiraneza of Iwacu Arts and Culture exhibiting local products, said the expo is an opportunity to sell their products and display cultural activities, adding that the location is good because it’s by the lake.
"It’s great, a lot of people are coming up, and everything is okay. We came here to relax,” said Peter Niyibizi, a father of three and businessman in Mbugangari, Gisenyi sector.
According to Ernest Nkurunziza, Chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF) in Western Province, around 2,000 people were recorded on day two and the number has increased.
About 176 exhibitors have taken part in the expo which runs until December 29, including business people from Uganda, Ghana, Tanzania, and Egypt.
"Rubavu town is safe and business is running as you can witness it by yourself,” said Déogratias Nzabonimpa, Vice Mayor in Charge of Economic Development at Rubavu District.