KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda is preparing to welcome global tourism players to the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026 (#POATE2026), a flagship event positioning the country as a leading travel and investment destination.
The expo, organised by the Uganda Tourism Board, will take place from May 21 to 23, 2026, at the Speke Resort Munyonyo under the theme “Wanderlust.”
POATE is Uganda’s premier tourism and travel trade exhibition, bringing together international buyers, investors, tour operators, and industry stakeholders to explore business opportunities and partnerships within the sector.
Officials say the 2026 edition will provide a platform for strategic networking, knowledge exchange, and destination marketing, while showcasing Uganda’s diverse tourism offerings — from wildlife and cultural heritage to hospitality and adventure experiences.
Sector players expect the expo to boost Uganda’s global visibility and unlock new investment opportunities, as the country continues to position itself as a competitive destination in both traditional and emerging tourism markets.
The event will also feature business-to-business engagements, exhibitions, and expert-led discussions aimed at strengthening the tourism value chain and driving sustainable growth in the sector.
Tourism remains one of Uganda’s leading foreign exchange earners, with strong linkages across sectors such as transport, agriculture, and the creative industry. As POATE 2026 approaches, the government is increasingly leveraging commercial diplomacy and targeted marketing strategies to attract more visitors and enhance the country’s tourism profile.
With its blend of culture, hospitality, and natural attractions, Uganda is using POATE 2026 to reaffirm its status as the “Pearl of Africa” and a must-visit destination on the global tourism map.
