Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo launch thrills tourism enthusiasts

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The ninth edition of Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE), slated for May 24 to 27, has been launched today, February 26, by Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Tourism Board, at Speke Resort, Munyonyo. 

The colourful event was attended by some of the most notable names in Uganda's tourism industry, including Explore Uganda ambassadors Moses Golola and Derrick Ssenyonyi. These were joined by artistes Anne Kansiime, Jackie Chandiru and rapper The Mith Mayanja. 

Hosted by comedian Patrick Salvador, the event focused on what Ugandans and tourism enthusiasts should expect at this year's POATE edition, with an addition of a new element dubbed "Tell Your Story". 

"Tell your story", according to Lilly Ajarova, the CEO of Uganda Tourism Board, is a competition about telling the beauty of Uganda through various experiences. 

Ajarova interacting with guests at POATE launch. (Credit: Reagan Ssempijja)

"For any Ugandan who has an interesting story about any tourism attraction, destination in Uganda, please tell your story by sharing videos, pictures and written stories, and share on social media. A team of judges will select the 10 best stories, and winners will be awarded during the POATE expo. We shall be awarding contestants across 10 categories such as Best tourism photo, Best tourism documentary and Most engaging travel story. The competition will run from March 7 to 24," Ajarova said. 

Ajarova added that the primary objective of POATE is to make Uganda the best destination, and create business-to-business linkages. "For every sh500,000, exhibitors will get an exhibition booth so that they get to showcase their services in the tourism sector," she added. 

The expo will run for four days, with each day showcasing different tourism activities. Guests and exhibitors from across Africa are expected to show up. There will also be a travel symposium where opportunities for free trade and aiding regional travel will be discussed. 

Katusiime having a light moment during the launch. (Credit: Reagan Ssempijja)

Ajarova also revealed that: "There will also be a conversation about domestic travel. It will centre on how Ugandans can be encouraged to engage in tourism activities of their own country."

The Chairperson of UTB, Pearl Kakooza, noted that there is need to promote Uganda's Agro-tourism, and that there is no better way to do this than through events like POATE. Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities remarked that, "Uganda is exceedingly gifted with nature and beauty, but we have always lacked on exhibition of our own beauty as a country. Therefore, such events like POATE and the 'Tell your story' contest will go a long way in promoting the beauty of Uganda."