By Joseph Mary Buwule
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially launched the 10th Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2026) at Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking a major milestone in Uganda’s annual tourism calendar and reaffirming the country’s ambition to position itself as a leading global travel destination.
The three-day expo, organised by the Uganda Tourism Board, has attracted more than 1,500 delegates, over 300 exhibitors, and representatives from more than 40 countries. It brings together global tourism players, investors, travel agents, and hospitality stakeholders to showcase Uganda’s wide-ranging tourism offerings.
Held under the theme “Wanderlust,” POATE 2026 is focusing on sustainable tourism, agrotourism, coffee experiences, wildlife conservation, and emerging tourism markets, while also strengthening business-to-business networking across the global tourism value chain.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Museveni described Uganda as offering the “true African experience,” highlighting its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, favourable climate, peace, and expanding investment opportunities.
“Uganda remains one of the most unique tourism destinations because of our favourable climate, rich culture, peace and natural beauty,” Museveni said.
He emphasized that Uganda is safe, open, and ready for both tourists and investors, urging international partners to tap into the country’s growing tourism sector as part of its broader economic transformation agenda.
The President also assured visitors and stakeholders that the government is applying targeted health and safety measures to manage public health concerns while keeping the economy open, adding that Uganda remains committed to improving the overall tourism experience, including more friendly visa arrangements to attract greater international arrivals.
In a message shared on his official platform, Museveni reiterated his welcome to the world, noting that Uganda continues to strengthen its tourism appeal as it advances toward upper-middle-income status.
The expo is expected to feature exhibitions, destination showcases, panel discussions, and investment dialogues aimed at promoting Uganda’s global visibility and competitiveness in tourism.
As POATE 2026 continues over the next two days, stakeholders are expected to deepen discussions on sustainable growth and regional cooperation, with tourism positioned as a key driver of foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and economic development across the country.