The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025 is set to take place from May 21 to 24 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking an important milestone for Uganda’s tourism sector.
Organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities in collaboration with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), this premier annual travel and tourism trade fair brings together tourism stakeholders, international buyers, investors, and media to celebrate and promote Uganda’s diverse attractions.
The expo will culminate in a grand cultural festival on May 24, featuring performances by renowned African artists including the legendary Blu 3, Ssuna Ben, Winnie Nwagi, Aliddeki Brian, and comedian Salvado, who will host the event alongside Sheilla Gashumba and Sheilla Salta.
A major highlight of POATE 2025 is the participation of IGC, a pioneering Ugandan fashion label co-founded by Katende Godfrey.
IGC has been named the official fashion curator for the expo, introducing a unique perspective focused on sustainability and heritage. Their showcase will present ten original outfits that reimagine Lubugo (barkcloth), tracing its evolution from traditional fabric to modern fashion.
IGC will lead a dynamic dance and runway performance during the official opening ceremony on May 21, followed by a fashion exhibition open to the public from May 21 to 23. This installation promises to be a bold visual celebration of Ugandan culture and the power of sustainable fashion.
On the final day, IGC will take center stage in the Culture Corner, offering an immersive experience of fashion, arts, and crafts. Highlights will include a runway presentation of the Evolution of Lubugo collection alongside collaborative pieces from local designers supported by the British Council.
IGC’s role in POATE 2025 reflects the growing recognition of creative industries that are sustainable, culturally rooted, and community-driven, as essential contributors to Uganda’s future.
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2025 is proudly sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Skills Excel, Uganda Tourism Association, Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Speke Resort Convention Center, the British Council, and Bold in Africa.
Entry to POATE is free from May 21 to 23. Tickets for the Music and Cultural Festival on May 24 are available for 20,000 UGX (ordinary) and 50,000 UGX (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.tagticketing.com. For more information, visit www.talentafricagroup.com.