CBE Successfully Hosts BEDC 2026 Conference in Mwanza to Boost Economic Growth and Digital Innovation

The College of Business Education (CBE) successfully hosted the Business and Economic Development Conference (BEDC 2026) from October 22 to 23, 2026, at the BOT Academy in Mwanza.

The official opening ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Hon. Dennis Londo (MP). Upon his arrival, Hon. Londo was warmly welcomed by the CBE executive leadership team before delivering his opening address. During his speech, the Deputy Minister called on academic researchers to produce policy-oriented analyses that directly assist government ministries and institutions in refining policies, enhancing strategic planning, and driving sustainable economic development across the nation.

A major highlight of the conference opening was the official launch of the BEDC 2026 Research Abstract Book by Hon. Londo. In addition, the event marked a key milestone in international academic cooperation with the launch of the Chinese Language Training Center. This launch was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Rector of CBE, Prof. Edda Tandi Lwoga, and the President of Polus International College from China, Mr. Yipe Liu, witnessed by Hon. Londo.

Over the two-day event, keynote speakers presented detailed research insights addressing current trends in business and economic management. Interactive panel sessions also focused on practical solutions for economic empowerment:

• Formalizing the Informal Sector: Dr. Ubaldus Tumaini, a lecturer at CBE, led a session on transitioning informal enterprises into the formal economy while building an inclusive, competitive environment for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 
• Digital Finance and Artificial Intelligence: A roundtable panel moderated by CBE lecturer Dr. Respickius Casmir explored the strategic use of data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital financial services to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth. 

To conclude the conference, the Deputy Rector for Academic, Research, and Consultancy, Prof. Robert Mashenene, presented certificates of appreciation to the keynote speakers and session leads to honor their valuable contributions to the success of BEDC 2026.