

ICOA Convention set to elevate East African Competitiveness in Global Value Chains
The International Community of Ankole (ICOA) is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated convention, scheduled for October 11-14, 2024, at The Westin Copley Place in Boston, MA, USA.
Themed Enhancing East African Community Competitiveness in Global Value Chains, this event aims to be a cornerstone gathering for business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and stakeholders across the region.


Key Highlights
Prestigious Speakers and Panels:
The convention will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including prominent government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and creators.


Hon. Evelyn Anite is Regional Vice President, Investment Promotion & Private Sector Development
These experts will share invaluable insights on strategies to enhance economic growth and innovation within the East African Community (EAC).


Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Uganda will also speak at the convention
Emphasis on Economic Advancement: Participants will delve into strategies to integrate the EAC more effectively into global value chains, with a focus on vital sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Attendees will acquire critical knowledge on leveraging regional strengths to compete on the global stage.



Sandrah Kahumuza, Senior Vice President, PR & Public Affairs ICOA
Networking Opportunities:
The event will offer unparalleled networking opportunities with international investors, industry experts, and policymakers. These interactions are designed to foster partnerships that can drive future growth and development.


Hon. Florence Hashaka Kabahweza
Board Director, Uganda Railways Corporation,
ICOA Executive Vice President of Strategy and Impact
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Focus: Sessions will spotlight the transformative power of innovation and entrepreneurship in regional economies, featuring success stories from East Africa, Africa at large, and the rest of the world. Discussions will cover digital transformation, sustainable practices, and inclusive growth strategies.


“This convention comes at such a pivotal time for the East African Community. Our aim is to equip stakeholders with the necessary tools and knowledge to elevate their enterprises and economies globally. By sharing best practices and fostering collaboration, we seek to enhance the region’s competitiveness and drive sustainable growth,” Julius Murinzi, President and CEO ICOA.


The International Community of Ankole (ICOA) is committed to promoting economic development and cooperation across Africa. By fostering trade, investment, and innovation, ICOA seeks to position the continent as a key player in the global economy.


Hon. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi: ICOA Ambassador Plenipotentiary to Uganda, State minister for gender, labour, and social development in charge of children and youth affairs
The convention will also have motivational speakers from across the whole of Africa with speakers from Ethiopia, South Africa and many other African countries.


Dr. Lia Tadesse, former Ethiopian Health Minister , Executive Director, Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program
For more information about the ICOA Convention and to register, please visit www.icoainc.org


Dr. Efa Muleta Boru, State Minister, Ministry of Agriculture, Ethiopia


Dr. Thomas Nyirenda, Strategic Partnerships & Capacity Development Manager and Head of the Africa Office, EDCTP


Phillip N. C. Springer, CEO Global-African Diaspora Development Institute.
ICOA Ambassador Plenipotentiary to the Caribbean




























