POATE 2025: Bigger, better and bolder

KAMPALA - The thundering of drums, the rhythmic stomping of feet and the graceful sway of dancers set the tone for POATE 2025, a celebration of Uganda’s culture, cuisine and tourism potential like never before.

From the spirited Larakaraka dance - complete with dancers mimicking Ankole cow horns - to tables heaped with mashed matooke, peppered chicken and thick groundnut stew, the energy was nothing short of electric.

Held at the picturesque Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala city, this ninth edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) was the largest and most vibrant since the event’s launch nearly a decade ago.

With over 500 delegates, 3,000 attendees and numerous exhibitors from Rwanda, Kenya, South Africa, India and Uganda, POATE 2025 reaffirmed Uganda’s growing status as a must-visit global destination.

A Celebration of culture and connection

The expo seamlessly blended business with entertainment. Live music and stand-up comedy kept the crowd on their feet, while cultural showcases gave visitors a taste of Uganda’s rich heritage.

Guest performers from Rwanda added a pan-African flair that kept cameras flashing and spirits high.

"Oh, Speke Resort is a world apart," said Advie Tuso, a visitor from South Africa. “Nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria, it's picture-perfect. Add its proximity to historic landmarks like the Uganda Martyrs Basilica and Kabaka Mwanga’s Regeta, and the setting becomes unforgettable. The lakeside breeze at Nyanja Restaurant paired with a BBQ spread that blends local and international flavours - magical.”

Repeat visitors, new discoveries

For others like Ramesh Patel from India, POATE has become an annual pilgrimage.

“This is my third time attending,” he said with a smile. “A week isn’t enough to explore Uganda. I’m still ticking off my faith tourism list — Namugongo Shrine, the Qaddafi Mosque, the Bahá’í and Indian temples, Bishop Hannington’s memorial. The Kidepo game drive felt like stepping into an old National Geographic documentary, and the boat cruise in Murchison Falls? Breathtaking. Bwindi Forest is next - I want to see those mountain gorillas with my own eyes.”

Conversations that matter

POATE 2025 also brought together a powerhouse panel of speakers, including tourism icon Amos Wekesa, youth advocate Ricky Rapa, digital trailblaser Jackline Nanteza, music executive Ali Allibhai, and ICT expert Arjun Mukund. Their insights into the world and Uganda’s tourism sector, tech integration, and investment potential inspired both seasoned entrepreneurs and first-time investors.

However, some participants noted that pre-event speaker profiles were not adequately publicised, making it hard to plan sessions. Others pointed out that the Business-to-Business (B2B) workshops suffered from poor time management, a flaw the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) is encouraged to improve on in future editions, with the support of a dedicated Chief Planning Officer (CPO).

Looking ahead Despite a few hiccups, POATE 2025 was a resounding success - both a showcase and a springboard. The message was clear: Uganda is ready for the world, and the world is ready for Uganda.

From cultural riches to tourism innovation, POATE continues to raise the bar. And if this year’s buzz is any indication, the tenth edition in 2026 promises to be even bigger and brighter.