Cassien Tuyisenge, a young artist from Ngoma District, is among the exhibitors at Eastern Province’s trade show. His booth showcases his innovative work in arts and crafts, where he adds value to trees by creating sculptures and furniture from recycled wood and tree branches. ALSO READ: Rwanda to host international trade fairs showcasing agrifood, construction materials According to Tuyisenge, this exhibition offers him a great opportunity to connect with potential customers and raise awareness about the importance of recycling for environment preservation. “The exhibition is not just a platform for me to display my work; it’s an opportunity to inspire others to appreciate repurposing materials and taking care of our environment,” he said. Tuyisenge is one of the over 300 exhibitors participating in the annual private sector exhibition in Eastern Province, highlighting a variety of talents, innovations, and products. Jean de Dieu Nkurunziza, the chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF) in Eastern Province, said that the two-week event, running from August 17 to September 3, encourages local businesses to showcase their latest products, technologies, and innovations. With over 300 exhibitors from sectors such as construction, agriculture, electronics, and arts and crafts, we expect to attract more than 3,000 visitors daily, providing exposure to local and international buyers, Nkurunziza noted. Among the international exhibitors is Abdul, an Egyptian investor showcasing electronics and home accessories. Excited about the large audience the expo is expected to draw, Abdul remarked, I’m thrilled to introduce my products to this massive audience. The support from the community has been fantastic, and I’m confident that my goods will be well received. This is also a chance for me to contribute to local development by creating employment opportunities for youth. In addition to exhibiting, PSF reported that over 400 youth secured jobs during the expo, working with exhibitors and gaining valuable skills in marketing, sales, and event management. Nkurunziza emphasized the agricultural innovations on display, which include methods for preserving farmland by planting animal fodder to boost milk production, water-efficient irrigation techniques, and new machinery to enhance farming practices. In the electronics sector, visitors can explore cutting-edge devices designed to streamline daily tasks, while the arts and crafts section offers handmade items that reflect the province’s rich cultural heritage—giving attendees the chance to purchase unique souvenirs. Last year's event hosted 189 exhibitors, but this year, the exhibition extended to over 300, including participants from regions such as Kagera in Tanzania. The private sector invested over Rwf100 million to ensure a diverse and engaging experience for attendees at the two-week expo.
