MUHANGA-The Minister of Trade and Industry has plans to begin intensive support to small scale projects in a bid to improve the quality of exports to regional markets and job creation.

François Kanimba made the revelation, yesterday, while opening the Southern Province trade Expo at Muhanga stadium.

"Exhibitions should be a learning experience and a source of innovative thinking toward creating business ideas. The ministry is set to start up projects that will emphasise the support of business ideas oriented at creating jobs,” Kanimba said.

The 10 day Expo has attracted over 140 exhibitors from the province, and other countries like-Uganda, Kenya and Egypt.

The provincial Governor, Alphonse Munyentwari, said the Expo idea has grown and is widely comprehended by the private sector and community over the past years.

"This is a sign of growth in the private sector in the province. We are privileged to have foreign exhibitors from whom we can learn and share ideas of doing business,” Munyentwari said.

The Expo has attracted various districts, local and international NGOs, business enterprises, banks, cooperative and associations.

This time around, the number of hotels and restaurants has increased and even entertainment and HIV education programs have been included.

However, giant corporations, such as MTN, Tigo and Bralirwa, did not participate in the event.

Ends