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Africa Trade Expo 2025: A Milestone in Regional Economic Collaboration

Author

Gerald Kombo
August 12, 2025

Industry leaders gathered for a high-level panel discussion during the Africa Trade Expo 2025, under the theme "Unlocking Africa's Potential" held at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa grounds.

The inaugural Africa Trade Expo 2025 (ATE2025), a groundbreaking expo that successfully concluded on August 10, 2025, was organized by the Dawoodi Bohra community of Kenya. The three-day expo transformed the Catholic University of Eastern Africa into a dynamic center of commercial activity and international exchange, marking a significant milestone in the region's economic landscape.

Expo Overview

The Africa Trade Expo 2025 brought together a diverse array of participants, including exhibitors, buyers, investors, and industry leaders from around the world. The expo attracted an impressive 6,625 visitors and featured 225 exhibitors across eight strategic sectors:

  • Information Technology

  • Manufacturing and Industrial Solutions

  • Tourism and Hospitality

  • Real Estate, Construction, and Infrastructure

  • Healthcare and Services

  • Green Energy and Sustainability

  • Agribusiness and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods

  • Home and Interiors

Notably, 50 of the exhibitors were small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), highlighting the region's growing entrepreneurial spirit and the diversity of its economic potential.

Key Highlights and Insights

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Shabbir Nomani, Chairman of the Dawoodi Bohra community in Nairobi, emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship and collective progress:


"We are proud to celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship here today, where businesses of all sizes have been given a platform to seize new possibilities and forge paths to greater success."

Echoing this sentiment,

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Moiz Hassanali, Project Coordinator for ATE2025, highlighted East Africa’s dynamic growth:


"East Africa stands among Africa’s most dynamic and rapidly developing regions. With this Expo, we aimed to inspire entrepreneurs to harness our region’s youthful population as well as the diverse and expanding infrastructure for collective growth and prosperity."

East Africa's Economic Momentum

Countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania continue to demonstrate robust GDP growth, positioning East Africa as one of the world’s fastest-growing economic regions. This expansion has fostered a burgeoning middle class, driving demand for high-quality goods and services. The Dawoodi Bohra community, with deep business roots across East Africa, has actively participated in and shaped this economic transformation, establishing enterprises in sectors ranging from real estate and manufacturing to technology and trade services.

Comprehensive Business Platform

ATE2025 provided a holistic business platform, uniting key investors, government delegates, and industry leaders. The expo featured product exhibitions, networking sessions, influential panel discussions, and numerous deal-making opportunities across all sectors. Participants engaged in tailored matchmaking services, fostering valuable partnerships, client connections, and collaborations.

Insights from Industry Leaders

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Murtaza Ebrahimjee, Ebrahimjee and Mutai Advisory:


"The Expo offered us a direct platform to engage with dynamic entrepreneurs across East Africa. We’re thrilled by the opportunities for collaboration and expansion that the expo has provided, and proud to contribute to the region’s industrial progress through quality manufacturing solutions."

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Lawrence Njenga, Head of Corporate Marketing and Membership, Kenya Association of Manufacturers:


"Manufacturing is a critical pillar for Kenya’s socio-economic development, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and exports. Our growth depends on strong local and global partnerships to accelerate industrialization, technology transfer, and inclusive economic development."

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Ken Onditi, National Director, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry:

"Kenya stands as Africa’s economic gateway and premier business destination, with a supportive policy environment, advanced digital infrastructure, competitive tax incentives, and preferential access to international markets."

Panel Discussions and Workshops

ATE2025 featured a series of panel discussions and workshops that provided attendees with valuable insights and practical knowledge on topics such as:

  • Business Growth and Scaling Strategies: Emphasizing innovation, market diversification, and strategic partnerships.

  • Challenges and Opportunities in East Africa’s Economic Landscape: Highlighting the region’s immense potential.

  • The Role of Technology and Innovation in Driving Economic Progress: Stressing digital transformation and leveraging emerging technologies.

Conclusion

The Africa Trade Expo 2025 was a resounding success, showcasing the region's economic potential and fostering meaningful collaborations and partnerships. The expo provided a platform for businesses to connect, innovate, and grow, driving collective progress and prosperity.