UFI, the Global Association
of the Exhibition Industry, will hold its flagship Middle East & Africa (MEA)
conference in Kigali, Rwanda, next year.
The event, April 15-17, will be hosted
by the Rwanda Convention Bureau and held at the Kigali Convention Centre.
Open to all exhibition industry professionals, the 2024 edition will build upon
the success of past UFI MEA Conferences, including the 2023 edition in Doha,
Qatar, which saw more than 150 participants. The conference will feature panel
sessions and deep dives on industry-critical topics, networking with the
region’s top decision-makers, and social events to introduce attendees to the
vibrant spirit of the host city.
Held annually, the UFI MEA Conference is the most important annual gathering of
exhibition industry leaders in the region. It is attended by senior
representatives from government entities, convention bureaus, tourism boards,
venues, and event organisers, in addition to economists, media and industry
experts, from across the world.
Naji El Haddad, UFI regional director MEA, said: “We at UFI, are delighted to take our next flagship event, the UFI MEA
conference, to the African continent, with Rwanda as the destination. This
vibrant country is experiencing a significant surge in the business events
industry, making it an ideal setting for delegates to immerse themselves in new
business opportunities. As they engage in fruitful conversations and forge
valuable connections, they can also revel in the captivating charm that Rwanda
offers. This conference promises to be a memorable experience, bringing
industry professionals from around the world and blending business growth with
the attractions of this extraordinary nation. I would like to express my
gratitude to the Rwanda Convention Bureau for serving as our esteemed host, and
I eagerly anticipate gathering with friends and colleagues at the remarkable
Kigali Convention Centre.", comments
Janet Karemera, CEO of Rwanda Convention Bureau, added: “Hosting the 2024 UFI MEA conference in Kigali presents a great opportunity not
only for Rwanda, but for Africa to showcase some of what our continent has to
offer, not only in terms of the industry but also tourism and investment
opportunities. Due to our connectivity and central location, Rwanda has access
to African and global markets. We have a track record of being a
proof-of-concept country for innovators looking to test, launch and scale. The
country is ranked 2nd in Africa for Ease of Doing Business and
Global Competitiveness while Kigali is the second preferred MICE destination on
the continent for associations meetings. With world-class infrastructures, an
open visa policy, easy air connectivity, and much more, Rwanda is an ideal
destination for exhibitions. As a country, we look forward to welcoming 2024
UFI MEA delegates and ensure that their stay and experience is memorable.”
