Navio, Kerunen, Walter light up POATE opening ceremony

The 2025 edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) kicked off on Wednesday, May 21, at Speke Resort Munyonyo with an atmosphere of unmatched excitement and celebration.

The four-day event, which will culminate in a grand music festival on Saturday, began with a lively showcase of tourism and cultural operators exhibiting their services and products while engaging in meaningful exchanges with expo attendees.

In the afternoon, the expo was officially opened with a captivating cultural showcase titled Sounds of the Pearl.

Crane Perfomers from Western Uganda on stage.PHOTO: Moses Nsubuga

The performance began with the renowned Crane Performers, who took the audience on a musical journey through Uganda’s diverse regions with folk songs and traditional dances.

The Kiganda dance routine proved to be a crowd favourite, catching the eye of Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, who attended the ceremony on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni.

Contemporary dancer Uncle Walter followed with a moving performance narrating the story of Akena, a son of the soil returning home after years away.

Tracy Melon and Carsten perfoming on stage. PHOTO: Moses Nsubuga

Narrated by cultural ambassador Susan Kerunen, the piece evoked memories of traditional African storytelling. Walter was later joined on stage by the Crane Performers, who brought the story to life with music and dance.

Adding a modern twist, the fashion segment by Ibrahim and Godfrey Community Fashion House celebrated the evolution of backcloth as a contemporary fashion statement. Models showcased innovative designs that blended heritage with modern style.

Crane Perfomers on stage. PHOTO: Moses Nsubuga

Back on the music stage, rapper Navio made a grand entrance wearing a kanzu and a black overcoat adorned with backcloth patches. He energised the crowd with his culturally infused hits Nawulira and Njogereza. Rising stars Tracy Melon, Ebrahim Soul’O, and Carsten also delivered dynamic performances.

The evening’s entertainment was curated and directed by Pamela Karyeko and Brian Aliddeki, who ensured a seamless fusion of tradition and modernity.

In her speech, Prime Minister Nabbanja applauded the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and its partners for uniting Uganda’s cultural and tourism potential under one platform.

“This event is a significant step toward the development of our tourism sector and cultural preservation,” she said. “It allows tourists to immerse themselves in our rich heritage and discover unforgettable experiences. Uganda has a story to tell—POATE 2025 is the stage.”

She then officially declared the expo open, setting the tone for three more days of discovery, celebration, and cultural pride.