Several local companies yesterday left for Uganda to attend the International Expo for Trade in Business and Professional Services.

The expo that opened at the Uganda Manufacturers Association showground in Lugogo, Kampala will end on Saturday.

Officials from the Private Sector Federation (PSF) say that only two companies registered with the federation for participation.

Nasta Munara, the PSF Officer in Charge of Expo Secretariat explained that despite flagging off only two companies, there is a possibility that others left without the federation’s consent.

Though she was not sure of the actual number, Munara said, "There are other local companies that will participate but did not seek our facilitation.”

PSF as a business community umbrella body facilitates companies intending to exhibit outside Rwanda with services such as acquiring visas, clearing merchandise, and linking them with others. 

Munara however stressed that companies should consider registering when intending to participate in trade related events outside the country.

"This does not only offer better organisation but also caters for tragedies in some cases,” she stressed.

The week long expo is expected to attract over 500 exhibitors from different African countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania, Rwanda and Kenya. They are to network, which act promotes their competitiveness.

Companies from outside Africa were also expected to attend. The services to be showcased include insurance, telecommunications, post delivery, engineering, consultancy, procurement, tourism and travel, information and communication technology, financial services and real estate.

Services are the fastest growing sector in the world. The global services market is estimated to be more than one trillion dollars.

Rwanda is one country which is moving toward economic competitiveness for development. The service sector is expected to be the driving force through business rating and in attracting investors.

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