The second day of the Italian Smart Living 2026 Expo in Addis Ababa focused on knowledge exchange, innovation and business networking, bringing together architects, developers, contractors, designers, engineers and manufacturers from across East Africa.
Organised by the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), the exhibition showcased emerging trends in sustainable construction, interior design, smart technologies and Italian craftsmanship, with masterclasses led by renowned Italian architects, interior designers and industry experts.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Claudio Pasqualucci, Regional Trade Commissioner for the Italian Trade Agency covering Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya and Somalia, said the expo was designed to promote long-term partnerships between Italian companies and East African businesses rather than simply market Italian products.
Pasqualucci said the Italian Trade Agency, a specialised agency under Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has more than 100 years of experience supporting Italian companies globally and is increasingly focusing on building partnerships in Africa.
“We want to work with local partners to create joint ventures and sustainable projects that respond to the needs of each market. We are here to share our experience, but at the same time learn how Italian innovation can be adapted to local tastes and realities,” he said.
He said East Africa presents significant opportunities due to its youthful population, growing urbanisation and rapid technological development.
Pasqualucci added that Uganda’s expanding hospitality sector, including new luxury hotels and boutique accommodation facilities, provides opportunities for collaboration in architecture, interior design and smart living solutions.
He announced that following the success of the Addis Ababa edition, the Italian Smart Living Expo is expected to be held in Kampala later this year or early next year.
“The positive response from Italian companies that participated in previous editions shows that this format works. We are building a community where businesses, designers, students and professionals can exchange ideas and develop long-term partnerships. Uganda is our next destination,” he said.
He added that the Italian Trade Agency plans to strengthen collaboration with Uganda’s architecture and design sector through business-to-business engagements, study visits to major Italian design exhibitions and partnerships with professional associations.
Participants from across the region said the expo provided an opportunity to discover new technologies, exchange ideas and establish business connections.
Representatives from Space Consult Architects (T) Ltd said the event exposed them to innovative technologies and design concepts that could be adapted to East African markets.
Delegates from Eaacon Ltd and Larubibi Construction Group Ltd said the expo created opportunities to build partnerships with Italian manufacturers and designers while promoting sustainable construction practices in the region.
The Italian Smart Living Expo continues to serve as a platform connecting Italian expertise in design and innovation with East Africa’s growing construction, real estate and urban development sectors, with Kampala expected to host the next edition as Italy expands commercial ties with the region.
