Govt will support tourism - Nabbanja
The Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja
What you need to know:
- The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) is an annual event showcasing Uganda’s unique attractions, promoting the country as a prime destination for tourism investment, partnerships, and cultural exploration.
The Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has pledged the government’s commitment to promoting the growth and transformation of the tourism sector.
“The Government of Uganda, through its Vision 2040 and the Tenfold Growth Strategy, has firmly committed itself to transforming tourism into a cornerstone of socio-economic development,” said Ms Nabbanja during the opening ceremony of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) on Wednesday.
POATE is being held at Speke Resort Munyonyo and Convention Centre and is running until May 24. The Prime Minister highlighted that the expo has grown into more than just Uganda’s flagship tourism event and that it has become one of the most influential regional expos, drawing together tourism stakeholders, media and investors. “The participation of over 3,000 delegates from more than 50 countries this year is a powerful demonstration of the value of partnership and the increasing global interest in Uganda and the East African region,” she added.
Ms Nabbanja was the Chief Guest on behalf of President Museveni. Mr Tom Butime, the minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, in his remarks echoed the Prime Minister’s words saying POATE is more than just an event. “It is Uganda’s flagship tourism marketing platform, designed to connect local tourism businesses with international buyers, investors, and media. Over the years, it has grown into a regional brand, affirming Uganda’s position as a leading tourism destination in Africa,” he said. Ms Vivian Lyazzi, the acting tourism development commissioner at the ministry of Tourism, said: “Uganda has now transitioned into the implementation phase of the National Development Plan IV... Among the key drivers of this transformation is tourism, a low-hanging fruit with immense potential to stimulate inclusive development.
ABOUT POATE
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) is an annual event showcasing Uganda’s unique attractions, promoting the country as a prime destination for tourism investment, partnerships, and cultural exploration. This year’s event, which is the 9th edition, is held under the theme ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation’.
