The Private Sector Federation (PSF) has allocated Rwf80 million to finance the preparation of provincial exhibitions commonly known as "miniexpos”.

This was revealed by Nasta Munara, the in-charge of the PSF Expo Secretariat.

"We have estimated that Rwf80 million will be used for the exhibitions,” she said.

The mini expos, which are carried out across all provinces, follow the recent 12th Rwanda International Trade Fair (RITF).

”Previously, preparations for provincial exhibitions were underway but suddenly halted to pave way for RITF. But now we are ready to set off,” Munara said.

She could not give the exact date when the provincial exhibitions will start. Each province has five days of showcasing.

It will be the 9th provincial exhibition since its inauguration in 2001.

According to Munara, the exhibitions are a platform; for local businessmen to market their products, share business experiences, and promote trade among districts.

She added that the exhibitions are used to recognize provincial entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence and integrity in their business practices.

According to figures by the PSF, the number of exhibitors increased by 36 percent from 284 in 2007 to 388 exhibitors in 2008.

These expos are regarded as preparations for foreign exhibitions held in countries such as Kenya, South Africa, Japan, Italy and America.

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