Uganda’s growth is shaped and driven by the farmers, manufacturers, artisans, innovators, entrepreneurs, and people who create and consume quality products every day across the country.
That is why the Regional Buy Uganda Build Uganda (BUBU) Trade Shows organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives are becoming an important part of Uganda’s journey towards a stronger local economy.
The regional trade shows are taking the BUBU message into the communities where local businesses are growing. They create opportunities for people to discover products made within their own regions while helping businesses connect with new markets, partners, and customers.
Building Confidence in Ugandan Products
Following the successful Western Region Trade Show in Mbarara last year, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Co-operatives organised the Northern Region BUBU Trade Show from 31st July to 2nd August 2026 at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City.
The event brought together exhibitors from the Acholi, Lango, Karamoja, and West Nile sub-regions, providing another opportunity to celebrate locally made products while strengthening regional trade connections.
The exhibition demonstrated that local businesses are not simply producing goods. They are creating jobs and adding value to Uganda’s raw materials.
This is exactly what the BUBU Policy seeks to achieve. By encouraging the production, purchase, and use of locally made goods and services, Uganda builds stronger industries, creates employment, and reduces dependence on imports.
Creating Opportunities for MSMEs and Startups
One of the biggest strengths of the regional trade shows is their focus on micro, small, and medium enterprises, as well as startups.
Many growing businesses have great products but limited opportunities to reach larger markets. The regional trade shows help bridge that gap by giving exhibitors a platform and bringing buyers, investors, government institutions, development partners, and the public under one roof.
Selected large manufacturers also take part in the exhibitions. Their presence creates learning opportunities for smaller businesses while opening doors for supply partnerships that can help local enterprises grow.
When businesses learn from one another and build stronger value chains, the entire economy benefits.
More Than an Exhibition
The Regional BUBU Trade Shows offer much more than product displays. Participants also benefit from:
- Product exhibitions
- Networking sessions
- Business conferences
- Business clinics
- Feedback sessions
- Inspirational talks
- Entertainment
These activities create an environment where businesses can learn, share experiences, build partnerships, and explore new growth opportunities.
A Shared Responsibility for Uganda’s Growth
The Buy Uganda Build Uganda Policy is a national effort that depends on the choices made by businesses, institutions, and consumers every day.
Every time a Ugandan business improves the quality of its products, every time an institution procures locally made goods, and every time a consumer chooses a Ugandan product, they contribute to building a stronger economy.
The Regional BUBU Trade Shows are a reminder that Uganda’s greatest potential exists within its people. By creating platforms that promote local innovation, strengthen businesses, and connect producers with markets, the BUBU Policy continues to support a future where Ugandan enterprises are better equipped to compete, grow, and contribute to national development.
