The Nongozi Cultural Festival and Expo, held under the theme "Striving for Rural Development Through Community Empowerment," showcased local products, services, and culture while promoting natural resource conservation.
Headman Austin Samupwa highlighted the need for infrastructure improvements to facilitate economic activity, asking for the sports field to be located closer to the market.
Deputy Minister of Environment, Tourism, and Forestry, Heather Sibungo, emphasised the importance of festivals for economic empowerment. "In many developing countries, platforms allowing communities to trade are vital for income and food security. They also address socio-economic challenges such as poverty and malnutrition," she noted.
Sibungo encouraged local organizations and businesses to invest in the expo, noting its potential to attract more exhibitors with proper marketing.