Rwanda has emerged the overall best exhibitor in the recently concluded ‘Jua Kali’ regional exhibition that was held in Tanzania.

Jua kali is an annual exhibition that draws together small and medium business people with hand made products from the East African countries.

Binamungu Epaphrodite the President of the chamber of art, craft and artisan at the private sector federation said that this has been Rwanda’s third victory at this exhibition in row.

"We were able to win in all categories because we had good organization before going into the exhibition and even when we reached there,” Binamungu explained

Rwanda emerged the winner in the best exhibitor category, best fashion show and culture category and had the best stands matched with organization.

The country has been participating in ‘Jua Kali’ for the last five years.

Part of the objectives for this exhibition was to give an opportunity to small businesses to access a wider market for their products.

"We also want the Rwandan businesses to share experience with their counterparts in the region as well as acquire knowledge in the business field” said Binamungu.

In Tanzania, Rwanda showcased various products including tin sculptures, skin products such as bags, shoes and belts. Other products were the famous Agaseke, banana wines and bamboo products.

In total, the Rwandan delegation of exhibitors was 60 adding to the 15 dancers from the national troupe which staged the traditional dances.

The total number exhibitors from the five countries of Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and Burundi were 813.
The chamber is now focusing on developing and improving products in terms of both quality and quantity if Rwanda is to remain competitive on the market.

According to Binamungu, the Rwandan exhibitors still face the challenge of not being to communicate because of language barriers.

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