The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025 officially opened on May 21 at the expanded Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Kampala, marking the ninth edition of Uganda’s flagship tourism event.
Organized by the Uganda Tourism Board, POATE 2025 runs through May 24 under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
The event brings together local and international stakeholders in tourism, including travel agents, cultural groups, artisans, and innovators, aiming to showcase Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and diverse natural attractions.
The Speke Resort, located on the shores of Lake Victoria, provides a fitting venue for the expo, combining modern facilities with scenic surroundings.
The recently enhanced convention centre offers ample space for exhibitors and delegates, while the resort’s green spaces highlight the country’s commitment to eco-tourism.
This year’s expo features interactive displays and exhibitions promoting Uganda’s top tourist destinations such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Murchison Falls, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Innovative technologies, including virtual reality safari experiences, allow visitors to engage with Uganda’s wildlife in new ways.
Cultural presentations are a key part of the event, with traditional dance performances and craft displays providing insight into Uganda’s diverse ethnic heritage.
Food vendors offer local dishes, giving attendees a taste of authentic Ugandan cuisine.
Sustainability remains a central focus at POATE 2025, with forums and panels discussing eco-friendly tourism practices and community involvement in conservation efforts.
Representatives from the Uganda Tourism Board emphasized how tourism revenues contribute to protecting endangered species and supporting local livelihoods.
The expo will conclude with a cultural festival on May 24, featuring performances by popular artists including Blu 3 and Abeeka Band, along with a boat regatta on Lake Victoria.
The festival promises to celebrate Uganda’s vibrant tourism sector and its role in national development.
POATE 2025 highlights Uganda’s increasing importance as a destination in the East African tourism circuit and underscores the country’s efforts to balance growth with environmental and cultural preservation.
