The 9th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) is scheduled to take place from May 21 to 24, 2025, at the Speke Resort and Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Kampala, Uganda. This premier tourism and travel trade show aims to position Uganda as a leading global tourism destination under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
The expected official list of some of the speakers for POATE 2025 has several prominent figures in Uganda’s tourism and business sectors. Here is an overview of some of the notable individuals anticipated to contribute to the event:
1. Hon. Tom Butime – Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities
As the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime plays a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s tourism policies and strategies. His leadership has been instrumental in promoting sustainable tourism practices and enhancing Uganda’s visibility on the international tourism map. At POATE 2025, he is expected to provide insights into the government’s initiatives to foster tourism growth and sustainability.
2. Doreen Katusiime – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities
Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, has been a driving force behind various tourism campaigns, including the “Tell Your Story – Explore Uganda” initiative. This campaign encourages Ugandans to share their tourism experiences, fostering domestic tourism and showcasing the country’s cultural richness. Her participation in POATE 2025 is anticipated to highlight the importance of community engagement in tourism.
3. Lilly Ajarova – Chief Executive Officer, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB)
As the CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board, Lilly Ajarova has been at the forefront of marketing Uganda’s tourism potential. She has emphasized the country’s commitment to responsible tourism and the promotion of eco-tourism initiatives. At POATE 2025, she is likely to discuss strategies to connect Uganda’s tourism offerings with global markets and reinforce collaborations that drive sustainable growth.
4. Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia – Business Mogul and Investor
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia is a prominent Ugandan businessman with significant investments in the tourism and hospitality sectors. As the proprietor of Speke Resort Munyonyo, the venue for POATE 2025, his insights into private sector contributions to tourism development are invaluable. His participation is expected to shed light on the symbiotic relationship between private investments and national tourism growth.
5. Amos Wekesa – Tourism Entrepreneur and Conservationist
Amos Wekesa is a renowned tourism entrepreneur and conservation advocate in Uganda. As the founder of Great Lakes Safaris, he has been instrumental in promoting Uganda’s unique wildlife experiences. His contributions to POATE 2025 are anticipated to focus on sustainable tourism practices and the role of conservation in attracting international tourists.
6. Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu – Former Minister and Academic
Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, a former Minister of Tourism and seasoned academic, has extensive experience in environmental management and tourism. His expertise is expected to provide a scholarly perspective on integrating environmental conservation with tourism development, aligning with the expo’s theme of sustainable transformation.
7. Pearl Hoareau Kakooza – President, Uganda Tourism Association (UTA)
As the President of the Uganda Tourism Association, Pearl Hoareau Kakooza represents the collective interests of tourism operators in Uganda. Her participation in POATE 2025 is likely to address the challenges and opportunities faced by tourism professionals and the importance of cohesive efforts to promote Uganda as a top travel destination.
POATE 2025 is set to host over 70 selected international buyers, more than 5,000 trade visitors, and a diverse range of exhibitors from around the world. The expo will facilitate robust Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) interactions, serving as a platform to showcase Uganda’s unique attractions and experiences. The event underscores Uganda’s commitment to sustainable tourism, aiming to ensure long-term benefits for both local communities and the environment.
In addition to the expo, the “Tell Your Story – Explore Uganda” campaign aims to engage Ugandans in sharing their captivating tourism experiences through various media. This initiative seeks to foster nationwide engagement in domestic tourism, inviting citizens to narrate their unique experiences and promote the beauty of Uganda’s landscapes and cultures through immersive storytelling.
As Uganda prepares to host POATE 2025, the event serves as a testament to the country’s dedication to positioning itself as a leading global tourism destination. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainability, Uganda is poised to showcase its potential to the world, fostering collaborations and investment opportunities that drive long-term industry growth.