The 9th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) concluded on Saturday, 24th May, with a colorful cultural and music festival at Speke Resort Munyonyo. The grand finale came after three days of exhibitions, conferences, and tourism showcases. Here we give you all the fun you missed.
Organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, and Talent Africa Group, the closing event brought together Uganda’s top performers for a night that celebrated the country’s rich culture and entertainment scene.
Music legends Jackie Chandiru, Lillian Mbabazi, and Cindy Sanyu — performing as the BLU *3 — headlined the night alongside top names like Winnie Nwagi, DJ Suuna Ben, Madrat and Chiko, Aliddeki Brian, Otim Alpha, Abeeka Band, and DJs Tony and Suuna Ben. Hosts for the evening included Salvador Idringi, Adele Kiele, and Sheilla Gashumba.
The day kicked off with a boating regatta experience on Lake Victoria, followed by early performances led by DJ Tony and the Crane Performers, who showcased Uganda’s cultural diversity through traditional dance and music.
Singer Aliddeki Brian energized the crowd with songs like Empaako Ya Niwooha, Akasilikiro, and Njagala Nkwagale, a fusion of traditional rhythms and modern melodies that particularly impressed international guests.
POATE
Abeeka Band followed with a 45-minute set that had the audience singing along to every cover, prompting an encore due to overwhelming demand. The energy continued with Madrat and Chiko’s comedic performance, drawing laughter from skits based on their travel experiences.
A special highlight was a fashion showcase by IGC (Independent Garments Company), co-founded by Katende Godfrey. As the expo’s official fashion curator, IGC presented a collection inspired by sustainability and heritage, reimagining Lubugo (barkcloth) into modern, stylish designs.
IGC presenting a collection
Otim Alpha, pioneer of the Acholitronix genre, delivered an upbeat set with traditional Acholi instruments and electronic music. His Larakaraka sound won over new fans, especially those familiar with northern Uganda’s musical traditions.
Winnie Nwagi then took the stage, delivering a powerful performance with hits like Musawo, Chekecha, Gyangu, Magic, and Amaaso (with Vinka), drawing fans to the front in full voice and dance.
DJ Suuna Ben’s performance was one of the night’s biggest highlights. His 40-minute session had the crowd, including foreign guests, dancing non-stop. Salvador Idringi later tweeted, “All I saw was kubakubakuba… goosebumps! This man is who he says he is.”
Suuna Ben doing his set
To close the night, BLU *3 reunited to perform fan favorites such as Nsanyuka Nawe, Mutima Gwange, and Sanyu Lyange, offering a nostalgic experience that resonated across generations.
POATE is an annual platform aimed at promoting Uganda as a premier destination for tourism, cultural exchange, and investment. It attracts tourism operators, investors, and travel professionals from around the world.
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