The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Doreen Katusiime, has noted that the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2025) is a crucial milestone in Uganda’s journey towards achieving the tenfold growth strategy.
“We want to increase tourism’s contribution to our GDP by ten times or 25 times in the coming years,” Katusiime said. “Achieving this ambitious goal requires collective efforts from all stakeholders, both government and private sector.”
Katusiime emphasized that events like POATE play a critical role in realizing this vision. “From local communities to international partners, we must work together to promote our tourism potential.”
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) is a premier tourism event that brings together local and international stakeholders to promote Uganda’s tourism potential. The expo is set for May May 21- 24, 2025.
The tenfold growth strategy aims to grow Uganda’s economy from USD 49.5 billion to USD 500 billion in the next 15 years.
The strategy focuses on four primary sectors: Agro-industrialization, Tourism development, Mineral development, and Science, Technology, and Innovation (ATMS).
Lilly Ajarova, The senior Presidential Advisor on Tourism, highlighted the importance of POATE in promoting Uganda as a premier tourism destination.
“POATE serves as a premium platform, bringing together international buyers, investors, and key stakeholders, further fueling the growth of Uganda’s tourism sector,” Ajarova said.
Stephen Masaba, Director of Tourism at the Uganda Wildlife Authority, emphasized the need for sustainability in Uganda’s tourism sector.
“As we celebrate sustainability, it is essential for all players in the sector especially food operators to uphold environmental principles, ensuring that our practices contribute positively to conservation efforts,” Masaba said.
The expo is expected to attract over 260 exhibitors from within and outside Uganda, as well as international buyers and investors.
Peter Mwanja, from the Uganda Tourism Association, encouraged businesses to take advantage of the exhibition space available.
“For businesses seeking visibility, the available exhibition space is filling up fast if you haven’t registered yet, now is the time to do so,” Mwanja said.