By Mark Frasier
ADDIS ABABA – Italy has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties with Africa following the opening of the Italy Smart Living 2026 exhibition in Addis Ababa, bringing together leading Italian brands in furniture, smart living, interior design, sustainability, and innovative building solutions.
The two-day exhibition was officially opened by the Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia, who said the event reflects Italy’s commitment to sharing its heritage of innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainable development while expanding partnerships with African businesses.
The event was attended by H.E. Tasew Gebregzabher, Ethiopia’s State Minister for Trade and Exports, who welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely platform for promoting trade, technology transfer, industrial cooperation, and investment between Italy and African countries.
The exhibition features internationally recognised Italian companies showcasing premium furniture, smart home technologies, sustainable construction materials, lighting systems, interior décor, and environmentally friendly lifestyle solutions aimed at supporting the future of urban living.
Representing Luxury Group Africa and Eco Housing Solutions (EHS), Dr. Edwin Musiime called for stronger collaboration between African enterprises and leading Italian brands, saying such partnerships would accelerate innovation, sustainable housing, smart city development, and knowledge transfer across the continent.
“Africa has much to gain from Italy’s rich history of innovation and world-renowned manufacturing excellence.
At the same time, Italian brands have an opportunity to deepen their presence in Africa through strategic partnerships that deliver sustainable and smart living solutions,” Dr. Edwin said.
Delegates from across Africa, Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world attended the exhibition, creating opportunities for business networking, investment, and commercial partnerships.
Organisers said the exhibition is intended to strengthen Italy–Africa economic cooperation by connecting manufacturers, developers, architects, designers, investors, and policymakers committed to advancing sustainable development and smart living across the continent.
