The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025 officially kicked off on the shores of Lake Victoria in Munyonyo, drawing more than 3,000 delegates from over 50 countries, attended by top diplomats and business people.
Opening the flagship tourism expo, Hon. Tom Butime, Uganda’s Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, set an optimistic tone, encouraging deeper partnerships and greater investment in Uganda’s fast-growing tourism sector.
“We’re investing in infrastructure, air access, digital tourism tools—now we call on our partners to help us unlock Uganda’s full tourism potential,” he said.
The event isn’t just about business deals—it’s also about heritage and healing. This year’s expo runs alongside the Annual International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Restorative Development in Africa, drawing Indigenous leaders, youth, scholars, and policymakers from across the continent and beyond.
Among the notable attendees were President Yoweri Museveni and Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, highlighting the importance of unity and tradition in building regional tourism.
Delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister Rt Hon Robinah Nabbanja officially opened POATE 2025 with a passionate call for inclusive, climate-resilient, and digitally advanced tourism.
Under the theme ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation’, she highlighted initiatives like the East African Single Tourist Visa and regional marketing strategies that are boosting seamless travel across borders.
“Let this be a launchpad for transformative ideas and partnerships. Uganda is ready to host the world,” she declared.
As POATE 2025 continues throughout the week, the expo stands as a living showcase of what Uganda has to offer—breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, rich traditions, and a united vision for a thriving tourism future.
