Dubai, UAE – Uganda has made a landmark debut at the prestigious Gulfood Expo in Dubai, marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic commercial diplomacy (ECD) and strengthening the global visibility of the Made in Uganda brand. Participating for the first time under the Made in Uganda initiative, Uganda’s presence at the world’s largest annual food and beverage exhibition aimed at expanding trade opportunities, boosting exports, and showcasing the country’s diverse agricultural products on the global stage. The participation of The Pearl of Africa represents a major step forward in advancing Uganda’s trade and export agenda.
Uganda’s delegation was led by H.E. Ambassador Aisa Ismail, supported by Counsellor Erina Zalwango, Counsellor Jeff Bayiga, and First Secretary Ms. Asha Nabbanja. Their collective efforts strengthened Uganda’s commercial engagement throughout the exhibition and ensured effective representation at the national pavilion. The Ugandan pavilion, located at Stand 30-26, South Hall 5, Dubai World Trade Centre/Expo City Dubai, attracted strong interest from buyers, distributors, investors, and industry leaders from the Middle East and other global markets. Designed to offer a unique “farm-to-market” experience, the pavilion highlighted Uganda’s agricultural value chain, sustainability practices, and export readiness.
Significant interest was recorded in a range of value-added Ugandan products, particularly coffee, cocoa, spices, avocado oil, and dried fruits. This interest underscored Uganda’s growing capacity to meet international quality standards and its ability to compete effectively in global food markets. Key facilitation and technical support were provided by the Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero. The Secretariat played a critical role in supporting production, branding, packaging, and presentation, ensuring that Ugandan products met international market expectations.
Uganda’s participation at Gulfood forms part of a broader national strategy to position the country as a leading supplier of organic, value-added, and processed food products. Already recognised globally as a significant producer of organic foods, Uganda’s engagement in international trade expos such as Gulfood is expected to open new markets, attract investment, and strengthen long-term trade partnerships.
