Uganda is set to host the 9th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025 at the prestigious Speke Resort and Convention Centre in Munyonyo from 21st to 24th May. Organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) in partnership with Talent Africa Group, the event aims to showcase Uganda’s diverse tourism offerings while strengthening its global presence in the industry.
Themed “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the expo will attract tourism stakeholders, international buyers, investors, and media representatives. It will serve as a platform to highlight Uganda’s unique attractions and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Alongside the expo, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has launched the “Tell Your Story – Explore Uganda” campaign, which encourages Ugandans to share their tourism experiences through videos, photos, and written content. This initiative aims to boost domestic tourism by fostering a sense of national pride and engagement with Uganda’s cultural and natural beauty.
Doreen S. Katusiime, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, described POATE 2025 as a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey towards increasing the tourism sector’s contribution to the economy. “This event plays a critical role in achieving our tenfold growth strategy, enhancing Uganda’s visibility as a premier tourism destination,” she stated.
UTB CEO Lilly Ajarova emphasized the expo’s importance in connecting Uganda’s tourism industry to the world. “POATE has grown into Uganda’s premium tourism and business networking event. Last year’s edition saw 250 participants, 30 exhibitors, and 59 hosted buyers from across the globe. We anticipate even greater participation this year,” she said.
A key highlight of POATE 2025 will be the Regional Tourism Conference, focusing on cross-border collaboration and strategies to enhance regional tourism. With 80% to 90% of Uganda’s inbound visitors coming from neighboring countries, the conference will promote stronger ties within East Africa, particularly with Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, Proprietor of Speke Resort Munyonyo, highlighted the economic benefits of hosting international conferences. “A well-developed convention center attracts high-profile events, leading to increased tourism and investment,” he noted. He emphasized that such events contribute significantly to Uganda’s GDP by attracting business travelers who often extend their stays to explore the country’s attractions.
POATE 2025 is expected to draw 70 international buyers, over 5,000 trade visitors, and a wide range of exhibitors. The event will feature B2B and B2C networking opportunities, destination marketing presentations, expert discussions, media engagements, and cultural showcases. Additionally, the expo will highlight Uganda’s potential in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, aligning with global trends in travel and hospitality.
With a strong focus on collaboration, investment, and sustainable tourism, POATE 2025 promises to be a landmark event in positioning Uganda as a top-tier global tourism destination. Here is a link to the Website https://www.poate2025.com/#/?lang=en