By Uganda has positioned the recently concluded 10th Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2026) as a launchpad for tourism growth and a key step toward maximizing opportunities around the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Held from May 21–23 at Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo, the expo brought together over 350 Ugandan exhibitors, 120 hosted buyers from 40 countries, as well as international media, investors and tourism stakeholders. More than 4,000 people attended on the second day, with business meetings aimed at driving partnerships and travel bookings.
President Yoweri Museveni highlighted Uganda’s strengths beyond wildlife, pointing to culture, cuisine, hospitality and peace as major tourism attractions, while also announcing plans for friendlier tourist visa arrangements.
Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) described AFCON 2027 as a major tourism opportunity, with plans to encourage visitors to extend their stay and explore attractions including gorilla trekking, the Source of the Nile, national parks and cultural experiences.
The expo also focused on expanding international and regional tourism partnerships while showcasing Uganda’s cultural diversity and growing tourism potential.
Photos are Courtesy of the Uganda Tourism Board
