Kampala, Uganda – 14 May 2025. The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025 is set to take place from May 21st to 24th at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking a significant 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 aims to unite tourism stakeholders, international buyers, investors, and media representatives to showcase Uganda’s diverse attractions.
The expo will culminate in a vibrant festival on May 24th, featuring performances from renowned artists across Africa, 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.
Among the highlights of POATE 2025 is IGC, a pioneering fashion label led by co-founder Katende Godfrey. IGC has been appointed the official fashion curator for the expo, setting the tone with a focus on sustainability and heritage. Their showcase will feature a collection of ten original outfits that explore the journey of Lubugo (barkcloth) from traditional material to contemporary fashion.
IGC will direct a dynamic dance and runway performance during the official opening ceremony on May 21st, followed by a fashion exhibition open to all attendees from May 21st to 23rd. This exhibition will serve as a bold visual statement celebrating Ugandan culture and the potential of sustainable fashion.
On the final day, IGC will expand its curation into the Culture Corner, providing an immersive experience in fashion, arts, and crafts. This includes a runway show featuring IGC’s Evolution of Lubugo collection and collaborative pieces from local designers supported by the British Council.
IGC’s participation in POATE 2025 underscores the growing importance of community-rooted, sustainable, and culturally grounded creative industries in shaping 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, as well as the British Council.
Access to the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo is free from May 21st to 23rd, but tickets for the grand finale Music and Cultural Festival on May 24th are available for purchase at 20,000 UGX for ordinary tickets and 50,000 UGX for VIP access, which can be secured online at www.tagticketing.com; for more information, please visit www.talentafricagroup.com.
