Refugee and Host Communities Exhibition and Conference

Empowering Futures Kampala, Uganda – October 1, 2025 – In a vibrant celebration of resilience, innovation, and collaboration, the IRAJI Foundation is proud to co-host the much-anticipated Refugee and Host Communities Exhibition and Conference. Scheduled for November 14th to 16th, 2025, at the MOTIV Bugolobi venue, this landmark event promises to be a transformative platform for refugees, host communities, policymakers, and business leaders alike. As a key partner alongside esteemed institutions like the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Soko Uganda, the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), IRAJI is committed to fostering inclusive economic growth and social justice in Uganda.

A Theme That Drives Change Under the compelling theme "Innovation & Value – Exhibiting Products Innovation by Refugees and Host Communities for Business Opportunities and Policy Reforms," the conference will showcase groundbreaking products and ideas born from the ingenuity of refugee entrepreneurs and their Ugandan hosts. Imagine stalls brimming with handmade crafts, agro-processed goods, and sustainable innovations – all displayed without the barrier of exhibition fees. This "Best Offer" initiative ensures that no talented participant is left behind, democratizing access to markets and networks that can turn ideas into thriving enterprises.

The event isn't just about display; it's a catalyst for deeper impact. Through panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions, attendees will explore policy reforms that address systemic challenges, from regulatory hurdles to funding gaps. IRAJI Foundation, with its longstanding dedication to rural advancement and justice initiatives, will lead sessions on equitable business integration, drawing from our on-the-ground experience supporting refugee-led cooperatives and community-driven projects across Uganda.

Why This Event Matters Now
Uganda stands as a beacon of hospitality, hosting over 1.5 million refugees – a testament to our shared humanity. Yet, amidst this generosity lies untapped potential: refugees and host communities bring diverse skills, cultural richness, and entrepreneurial spirit that can propel national development. The Exhibition and Conference arrives at a pivotal moment, aligning with global calls for sustainable development goals and local efforts to boost the informal economy.

Highlights include:
• Exhibition Booths: Free for refugees and host community members to showcase products like artisanal foods, textiles, and eco-friendly goods.
• Conference Tracks: Deep dives into value addition, market linkages, and advocacy for inclusive policies.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with investors, government officials, and NGOs for real partnerships.
• Cultural Exchanges: Moments of joy and solidarity, featuring live demonstrations and community storytelling.

As Hillary Mbabazi, IRAJI's event coordinator, shares: "This is more than an event – it's a bridge to self-reliance. By amplifying voices from the margins, we're building a Uganda where every innovator, regardless of origin, can flourish."

Join Us in Bugolobi
Whether you're a refugee artisan ready to exhibit your wares, a policymaker seeking fresh insights, or a business enthusiast eager to collaborate, your participation is vital. Spaces are filling fast, so act now!

To Participate or Exhibit:
• Contact: Call ‪+256 781 369782‬ or email hillarymbabazi@gmail.com
• Venue: MOTIV Bugolobi, Kampala
• Dates: November 14–16, 2025

The IRAJI Foundation invites all to be part of this historic gathering. Together, let's innovate, reform, and uplift – because when refugees and hosts unite, the possibilities are endless.
For more on IRAJI's work in refugee empowerment, visit our initiatives page or follow us on social media. Let's make November unforgettable!

About IRAJI Foundation: Dedicated to rural advancement and justice, IRAJI empowers marginalized communities through education, economic opportunities, and advocacy for sustainable change.