Mediavision Academy Hosts “Market Village” Exhibition for Refugee Communities

Kampala, 29 November 2024 – The garden of Mediavision Academy is alive with the vibrant colors and sounds of the “Market Village,” an exhibition showcasing home-made products from refugee communities residing in Uganda’s capital. Refugees from Eritrea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia proudly present their creations under the initiative Soko Uganda, which promotes the motto “Buy Uganda, Build Uganda.”

Mediavision Academy has generously provided its space to host this unique event, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit of refugees. Running over two days, the exhibition features not only the products of local refugees but also the support of various organizations dedicated to empowering these communities. Among them are Ugafode (Microfinance Limited-MDI), which focuses on building financial resilience for refugees, Empowering Refugee Women, which aims to enhance market access for female refugee entrepreneurs through digital channels, and Tamani, a banking initiative sponsored by Centenary Bank, alongside corporate partners like Pepsi-Cola.

Founded in 2018 by Mbabazi Hillary, Soko Uganda plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of micro-businesses among refugees, connecting them to market access and financial opportunities. “Refugees are contributing to the GDP of Uganda,” emphasized Mbabazi Hillary, who believes in the importance of collaboration in helping these communities showcase their products effectively.

In his speech, Robert Nkambo the founder and director of Mediavision Academy which is located in a neighborhood where several refugee communities live peacefully, expressed the institution’s commitment to supporting and collaborating with refugee communities. “Mediavision Academy supports communities and wants to partner with refugee communities,” Nkambo shared with the exhibitors.  “This exhibition will take place every last week of the month,” Mbabazi concluded, highlighting the ongoing collaboration with Mediavision Academy.

The atmosphere was further enriched by the delightful offerings of home-made coffee prepared by Eritrean entrepreneurs Samrawit Berhane and Rahwa Tesfay, adding a personal touch to the cultural exchange happening at the exhibition.  This Market Village stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of refugee communities in Uganda, encouraging a culture of support and unity through commerce and community engagement.

Written by Daniel Meboya Massamba Strategic Communication Specialist.  Photos by Osbert Muhumuza and Oubeideillah Mdhikiri.