Following a lively press day, the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025 elevated the experience with an exclusive Hosted Buyers’ Conference and Cultural Treat, blending high-level tourism dialogue with electrifying live performances that embodied Uganda’s vibrant soul.
Delegates from across Africa and beyond were treated to a runway fashion showcase by IGC (Ibrahim & Godfrey Community), setting a bold tone of elegance and creativity. Then came the show-stopping Uncle Walter, who delivered an unforgettable performance, mesmerizing the crowd with musical storytelling and traditional flair. Uncle Walter’s artistry indeed earned a standing ovation. “Wow! This is very awesome, i can’t believe i just witnessed such a magnetic performance by Uncle Walter,” one of the hosted buyers told media personality Emuk Benjamen alias Benjie.
The evening soared even higher when Navio hit the stage, opening with a Karamojong-inspired song before delivering his signature hit Njogeraza, igniting the room. Rising star Tracy Melon added a sensational close to the cultural showcase, leaving guests in awe.
Amidst this rich cultural experience, delegates transitioned into the Conference on Regional Tourism, a cornerstone of POATE 2025, where President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, represented by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, officially opened the Expo with a rallying call to transform tourism into a force for inclusive, green, and regional development.
Museveni’s message was clear and powerful:
“Tourism must evolve, driving climate resilience, digital innovation, and inclusive growth. POATE is not just a showcase, it’s a launchpad for regional prosperity.”
He urged for deeper East African integration, cross-border tourism circuits, and strategic investment in infrastructure like houseboats and ferries on Lake Victoria.
Also addressing the conference was Hon. Tom Butime, Uganda’s Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, who reminded regional leaders that, “Tourism is not a zero-sum game. When one of us thrives, we all benefit. Let POATE 2025 be remembered as the moment we turned our shared potential into shared prosperity.”
He also hinted at new investment opportunities such as introducing houseboats and ferries on Lake Victoria, aimed at boosting regional lake tourism.
From the Rwenzori Mountains to the shores of Lake Victoria, Uganda positioned itself not just as a destination but as a launchpad for regional cooperation, innovation, and growth.
As the Expo nears its grand finale, POATE 2025 has already proven to be more than an event — it’s a cultural revolution and a tourism renaissance
