By BigEyeUg Team
The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA), in collaboration with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), is pleased to announce the return of Uganda’s flagship tourism and travel trade show, the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2025).
Scheduled to take place from May 21 to 24, 2025, at the newly expanded Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, this highly anticipated event will bring together global tourism stakeholders under the theme: “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation.”
A highlight of this year’s expo is the grand opening ceremony on May 21, featuring Sounds of the Pearl—a 55-minute live musical production that narrates Uganda’s cultural journey through the eyes of Akena, portrayed by Walter Ruva. As a young traveler exploring Uganda’s kingdoms, landscapes, and ancestral memories, Akena is guided by the spirit of Mother Pearl, played by Suzan Kerunen, and narrated by the Wisdom Keeper, performed by Navio.
This captivating show seamlessly blends traditional music and dance—performed by the Crane Performers—with contemporary fashion curated by IGC in collaboration with Bold Africa. With over 40 performers, immersive LED projections, and multilingual narration, Sounds of the Pearl promises to transport audiences through the rhythmic footbeats of the Bakiga, the regal courts of Tooro, and the vibrant energy of Karamoja. It is more than a performance—it is Uganda’s cultural voice brought to life through storytelling, rhythm, and innovation.
Complementing the musical production, IGC will serve as the Official Fashion Curator for POATE 2025. Known for its commitment to sustainability and cultural authenticity, IGC will showcase two fashion exhibitions and runway shows centered on eco-conscious design and heritage. At the heart of their presentation is a groundbreaking collection of ten outfits crafted from Lubugo (barkcloth), ranging from ready-to-wear ensembles to haute couture creations. This striking display will be located at the entrance of the Speke Resort, offering guests a bold introduction to Uganda’s sustainable fashion evolution.
The exhibition will also spotlight the work of independent Ugandan designers, including Mawejje Creations, Amylia Clothing, Sanvra, and Kibirango Ogal Gabriel. Open to all POATE attendees from May 21 to 23, the fashion showcase will debut during a vibrant runway and dance performance as part of the official opening ceremony.
The expo will conclude on May 24 with a colorful music and cultural festival featuring renowned African artists such as Blu 3, Ssuna Ben, Winnie Nwagi, Aliddeki Brian, and comedian Salvado, who will co-host the event alongside Sheilla Gashumba and Sheilla Salta.
That same evening, IGC will return to the main stage for two signature runway shows: The Evolution of Lubugo and The Evolution of Kikoyi, presented by My Fashion Biography.
POATE 2025 is proudly sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Skills Excel, Uganda Tourism Association, and the Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute. The fashion segment is curated in partnership with British Council Uganda, Bold in Africa, and ORM.
For more information, visit www.talentafricagroup.com. Entry to the expo is free from May 21 to 23. Tickets for the grand finale Music and Cultural Festival on May 24 are available for purchase at UGX 20,000 (ordinary) and UGX 50,000 (VIP) via www.tagticketing.com. Follow IGC on Instagram at @igc_fashion for exclusive fashion updates from POATE.