Kampala, Uganda – The 10th Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2026) successfully brought together international buyers, tourism stakeholders, investors, creatives, and government leaders in a renewed effort to position Uganda as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations.
Officially opened by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the Expo highlighted Uganda’s unique strengths including its favorable climate, breathtaking biodiversity, rich cultural heritage, hospitality, safety, and growing investment opportunities within the tourism sector. Addressing delegates, the President emphasised Uganda’s stability, strong public health systems, and strategic location, describing the country as naturally gifted for tourism and investment. “Uganda is one of the safest and most stable destinations in Africa,” he noted.
Discussions at the expo focused on sustainable tourism, regional cooperation, destination marketing, digital storytelling, and tourism investment opportunities aimed at increasing Uganda’s global competitiveness. Uganda Tourism Board CEO Juliana Kagwa called for innovative and market-specific tourism promotion, emphasizing the importance of digital content, storytelling, and stronger collaboration between UTB, Uganda’s Missions Abroad, creatives, and influencers to market the Pearl of Africa more effectively.
At the sidelines of POATE 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs convened Uganda’s Missions Abroad and tourism stakeholders meeting to strengthen whole of government coordination in promoting Uganda globally. The Permanent Secretary Vincent Waiswa Bagiire underscored the importance of strategic diplomacy, digital systems, measurable outcomes, and partnerships in advancing Uganda’s tourism ambitions.
The final day of the Expo featured Business to Business (B2B) engagements and experiential tourism showcases, giving hosted buyers and international delegates an opportunity to experience Uganda’s culture, cuisine, hospitality, and tourism products firsthand. From strategic conversations to cultural showcases and investment engagements, POATE 2026 once again reaffirmed Uganda’s message to the world the Pearl of Africa is open, competitive, and ready to welcome the world.
