Rwanda
Kigali . This edition aimed to build on the success of the previous conference held in Doha , Qatar , which drew 150 participants . The official opening session featured Jackie Nake Lumbasi as the event moderator and MC . There were welcome messages from UFI president Geoff Dickinson , CEO of dmg events , followed by the host ’ s address and a welcome from Nelly Mukazayire , deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board ( RDB ).
Rwanda – A New Rising Regional Hub for the MICE Industry , moderated by Jackie Lumbasi , was a session highlighting Rwanda ’ s emergence as a key player in the MICE industry . Panelists Christian Gakwaya , CEO of Rwanda Events ; Janet Karemera , CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau ; and Rob Kucera , district director East Africa & GM of Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre , discussed Rwanda ’ s appeal to international stakeholders , the driving forces behind its growth , and the role of private-public partnerships in supporting the government ’ s vision .
Evolving Landscapes : The State of the Exhibition Industry with a Specific Focus on Africa and the Middle East
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was another session , this one curated by Enrico Gallorini , CEO of GRS Research & Strategy and president of Info Salons . He led a deep dive into the exhibition industry ’ s current performance and future strategies , providing attendees with valuable insights into creating optimal strategic frameworks for successful events in Africa and the Middle East . Tapping into Emerging Markets : Opportunities and Challenges for the African Exhibition Industry was a session exploring the potential for growth in the African exhibition industry . Panelists Alexander Angus , managing director for Africa at Montgomery Group ; David Ashdown , CEO of VUKA Group ; and Dr . Geoffrey Manyara , economic affairs officer at UNECA , discussed strategies for overcoming challenges such as cultural differences and regulatory frameworks . The session emphasised the need for infrastructure investment , tourism promotion , and education to fully realise the industry ’ s potential .
Sustainability Practices in Events was a session moderated by Jackie Lumbasi . It focused on incorporating sustainable practices in event planning . Panelists Said Salim Al
Shanfari , CEO of Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre ; Tracy Thandeka Mkhize , COO of Cape Town International Convention Centre ; Carol Weaving , managing director of RX Africa ; and Lindsay Bowman , head of MICE , sport , and e-sport at Visit Qatar , discussed strategies to minimise environmental impact , promote sustainability , and support local communities .
Exploring the Transformative Power of Generative AI and Emerging Technologies in the Business Events Industry saw Mykyta Fastovets , co-founder & CTO of ExpoPlatform , lead a session on the revolutionary impact of generative AI and other emerging technologies on the events industry . The discussion covered personalised event recommendations , real-time data analysis , and other advancements enhancing the overall event experience .
The Next Generation Leader in the Business Events Industry : What it Takes for a Female Executive to Win the Role was a session moderated by Trixie LohMirmand , executive vice-president of Dubai World Trade Centre . This session examined the profile of future leaders in the business events industry . Panelists Geoff Dickinson , CEO of dmg events ; Michael Duck , executive-vice president of commercial development at Informa Markets ; Sonto Mayise , CEO of Durban Convention Bureau ; and Diego Cortese , VP of Venue Commercial at Dubai World Trade Centre , discussed how women executives can rise above their counterparts to become the next generation leaders .
Post-Conference Tour The conference concluded with a city tour of Kigali . Attendees immersed themselves in the rich cultural heritage and dynamic atmosphere of the capital , visited historical landmarks , and connected
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