To drive transformative change through international trade development, UK Africa Trade Expo (UKATE) brought together sector professionals across the globe to dialogue on how to bring culture and commerce together for sustainable development at the Institute of Directors in Central London recently.
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UKATE, which was a move to improve economic opportunities for Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs), was aimed at fostering a new era of collaboration in the areas of economic growth, entrepreneurial empowerment for women and youth.

The UKATE platform founded by Prince Kamari Ademiluyi offers a unique opportunity for MSMEs to leverage on the UK historical ties to Commonwealth countries and act as catalysts for transformational change of local and regional ecosystems through International Trade Development.

The expo which was officially declared opened by His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the monarch of the Yoruba kingdom of Ile-Ife who attended the event virtually, featured a wide range of high-level panel discussions, interactive sessions complete with presence of high-profile dignitaries from various African embassies, renowned educational institutions and top-rated business organisations.

In his opening address, the Ooni commended Prince Kamari Ademiluyi, founder of UKATE and his team for pulling off such a successful event that was backed up by international brands like GEC Space and other key partners. He said: “As a small business adviser and enterprise mentor, I welcome the launch of the UK Africa Trade Expo and hope that it will grow from strength to strength over time.”

The UKATE unveiled its six key pillars, focusing on Connectivity & Innovation, Data & Market Innovation, Cluster & Sector Transfer, and Infrastructure Investment & Joint Veterans. These pillars, according to the organisers, form the bedrock for integrating sustainability, social value, and environmental considerations within competitive markets, fostering collaboration, trust and cooperation.

The expo also featured a total of 19 esteemed guest speakers cutting across various backgrounds, each shedding light on a myriad of topics ranging from fashion to exploring cutting-edge technology, revolutionising farming, and unearthing innovative ideas to uplift the lives of the less privileged particularly the women folk and young people.
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