After three days of conferences, exhibitions, and showcases, the 9th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo concluded on Saturday, May 24, 2025, with a vibrant music and cultural festival held at the Lakeside Gardens, Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The event, which began on May 21, was organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and wrapped up with a grand celebration of Ugandan talent and culture.
The festival was headlined by the iconic singing trio Blu *3 (Jackie Chandiru, Lillian Mbabazi, and Cindy Sanyu), renowned DJ Suuna Ben, crowd-favorite Winnie Nwagi, the comedy duo Madrat and Chiko, Aliddeki Brian, Abeeka Band, Crane Performers, DJ Tony, and Otim Alpha. Hosting duties were masterfully handled by Salvador Idringi, Adele Kiele, and Sheilla Gashumba.
A Day Full of Culture, Music, and Entertainment
The day began with a boating regatta experience on Lake Victoria for some guests, followed by a lively DJ set by DJ Tony. The Crane Performers opened the stage performances with a powerful cultural showcase featuring dance and music from different Ugandan communities.
Aliddeki Brian captivated the audience, particularly international visitors, with his fusion of traditional Ugandan melodies and modern sounds in songs like Empaako Ya Niwooha, Akasilikiro, and Njagala Nkwagale.
At 6 p.m., the crowd was treated to a vibrant 45-minute performance by the Abeeka Band. Their set was so well-received that they were asked back on stage for an encore. Madrat and Chiko followed, delivering hilarious skits inspired by their travel experiences, leaving the audience in stitches.
Fashion Meets Tradition
The official fashion curator for the expo was IGC, a pioneering Ugandan fashion label co-founded by Katende Godfrey. IGC showcased a unique collection focusing on sustainability and heritage, reimagining Lubugo (barkcloth) into modern, stylish outfits.
Musical Highlights
Otim Alpha, regarded as the pioneer of Acholitronix—a blend of electronic music and traditional Acholi instruments—mesmerized the crowd with his energetic Larakaraka beats, winning over a new audience with his cultural fusion.
Winnie Nwagi’s powerful performance brought the crowd closer to the stage. She performed hits such as Gyangu, Chekecha, Matala, Musawo, Magic, Okubye Nyo, Fire Dancer, Amaaso (with Vinka), Malaika, and Batuleke.
DJ Suuna Ben’s electrifying set had the entire venue buzzing with energy. “I’ve hosted events before, but last night I was in awe,” tweeted Salvador after Suuna’s set. “During the day, we had a lot of classy people… at night during Suuna’s set, all I saw was kubakubakubakuba. I got goosebumps—never seen anything like that. This man is who he says he is.”
Despite lasting just 40 minutes, Suuna Ben’s session left both locals and foreigners in awe, describing the experience as nothing short of spiritual.
A Nostalgic Ending
The night culminated with a nostalgic performance from Blu *3, who took fans down memory lane with their classic hits Nsanyuka Nawe, Hitaji, Mutima Gwange, Where You Are, and Sanyu Lyange, among others.
About the Expo
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) is Uganda’s premier tourism event aimed at showcasing the country’s unique attractions and promoting it as a prime destination for investment, partnerships, and cultural exploration. The event brings together tourism operators, travel agents, hospitality stakeholders, and investors from around the globe.
Sponsors and Organizers
This year’s expo was sponsored by:
- Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities
- Uganda Tourism Board
- Uganda Wildlife Authority
- Skills Excel
- Uganda Tourism Association
- Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute
- Uganda Waragi
- IGC (Official Fashion Curator)
- Talent Africa Group
- Uganda Airlines
- KCCA
- PSFU
- UN Global Pulse
- Lemala Wild Waters
- Speke Resort Convention Center
The event was organized by Talent Africa Group, Uganda’s leading 360-degree event management company.