The 9th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) has been officially launched today, February 26, by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and the Uganda Tourism Board at Speke Resort, Munyonyo. The expo is scheduled to take place from May 24 to 27.
The colorful launch event was attended by key figures in Uganda’s tourism industry, including Explore Ugandaambassadors Moses Golola and Derrick Ssenyonyi. They were joined by entertainers Anne Kansiime, Jackie Chandiru, and rapper The Mith Mayanja. Hosted by comedian Patrick Salvador, the event highlighted what to expect at this year’s POATE, including a new initiative dubbed “Tell Your Story.”
According to Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) CEO Lilly Ajarova, “Tell Your Story” is a competition designed to showcase Uganda’s beauty through personal experiences.
“For any Ugandan with an interesting story about a tourism attraction or destination in Uganda, please share your story through videos, pictures, or written accounts on social media. A panel of judges will select the 10 best stories, and winners will be awarded during POATE,” Ajarova said.
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The competition, running from March 7 to 24, will award winners across 10 categories, including Best Tourism Photo, Best Tourism Documentary, and Most Engaging Travel Story, among others.
Ajarova emphasized that POATE aims to position Uganda as a top tourism destination while fostering business-to-business linkages. She also announced that exhibitors could secure booths for UGX 500,000 to showcase their tourism-related services.
The four-day expo will feature various tourism activities and attract guests and exhibitors from across Africa. A travel symposium will also be held to discuss regional travel and free trade opportunities. Additionally, discussions on promoting domestic tourism among Ugandans will be part of the event.
UTB Chairperson Pearl Kakooza highlighted the need to promote agro-tourism through platforms like POATE. Meanwhile, Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, stressed the importance of showcasing Uganda’s natural beauty.
“It is without a doubt that Uganda is exceedingly gifted with nature and beauty, but we have always lacked proper exhibition of our own country’s attractions. Events like POATE and the ‘Tell Your Story’ contest will go a long way in promoting Uganda’s tourism potential,” Katusiime remarked.
