Uganda-Nordics trade and business expo called off

Mr Ocici at a forum recently. Photos by STEPHEN OTAGE. 

By ISMAIL MUSA LADU

The Uganda-Nordics business expo has been called off due to clearance delays by the Swedish immigration authorities.

Mr Eddie Bazira, the Chairman of the Uganda Diaspora Coordinating office in Uganda, confirmed the development.

He said the Silja Line Cruise Expo that was supposed to take place weeks ago has been postponed to August.

“The cancellation was brought about by the delay in getting the necessary clearance for the travelling Ugandan contingent from the Swedish immigration authorities,” Mr Bazira said.

He said the event would take place from August 29 to September 02  aboard the Silja Line Cruise—between Stockholm- Sweden and Helsinki- Finland.

The Expo is an initiative of Ugandans living in Nordic countries. Through such initiatives, they hope to encourage trade between Uganda and Nordics countries.

 “We need to move towards trade. And through that, we will not even need aid since we shall be on equal footing,” Mr Bazira said.

The expo will also avail Ugandans the opportunity to form partnerships and get first-hand information on how to penetrate markets in Nordic countries.

Nordics countries offer numerous opportunities for partnerships in information technology, financial services, construction, motor vehicles, pharmaceutical products, wood & paper, iron and steel, agro-processing among others.

According to Mr Bazira, the business people in Nordic are known for observing high ethical standards and engaging in long-term mutually rewarding relationships.

The Executive Director of the Private Sector Foundation, Mr Gideon Badagawa applauded the move saying it would not only help Ugandans learn from their counter parts but also create a platform for attracting investments.