President William Ruto visited Rwanda’s exhibition booth during the official opening ceremony of the 25th East African Community (EAC) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade Fair at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi, highlighting the strong spirit of regional trade and cooperation within the bloc.

The Kenyan Head of State was received by Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Ernest Rwamucyo, who briefed him on the wide range of products on display by Rwandan entrepreneurs.

Rwanda was represented at the fair by approximately 100 exhibitors, showcasing diverse goods from the agro-processing, handcraft, leather, textile, and herbal sectors.

The ten-day trade fair which concluded on November 16 provided a critical platform for MSMEs from across the EAC Partner States to explore new markets, exchange emerging technologies, and strengthen regional integration through trade and enterprise development.

On the sidelines of the fair, Partner States gathered to mark the Day of Rwanda, a key feature of the annual EAC MSMEs Trade Fair where each country is allocated a dedicated day to lead discussions on strengthening MSMEs across the region, followed by a cultural showcase.

Addressing participants, High Commissioner Rwamucyo commended the Government of Kenya for hosting the fair and praised the EAC Secretariat for its effective coordination. He also acknowledged Partner States and business leaders for their continued efforts in fostering regional cooperation and economic integration.

The High Commissioner highlighted Rwanda’s commitment to empowering MSMEs to access both regional and international markets, citing initiatives such as export readiness training, business linkages, and active participation in regional trade fairs.

Kenya’s Principal Secretary for MSMEs Development, Susan Mang’eni, reaffirmed her Ministry’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs across East Africa, noting that platforms such as the EAC MSMEs Trade Fair create opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and market expansion. She encouraged MSMEs to embrace culture as a key driver of economic development.

Annette Mutaawe Ssemuwemba, the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, praised Rwanda’s inclusive industrialization agenda, noting that this was reflected at the fair through the strong presence of women-led, youth-driven, and community-based enterprises from Rwanda.

The Day of Rwanda celebrations also involved vibrant cultural performances that showcased the richness, creativity, and enduring spirit of Rwandan heritage.