The Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo is set to host the eigth edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2024, East Africa’s premier tourism event that is just days away. Since opening in January, the convention centre is now the most sought-after venue for conferences in Uganda.
Under the theme, “Responsible Tourism”, this year’s expo will happen between May 23rd – 25th. According to Uganda Tourism Board, the organisers, POATE serves as a global platform for meaningful business to business meetings, fostering connections between industry leaders, insightful seminars and workshops, exquisite exhibitions, and breathtaking familiarization trips.
The theme “Responsible Tourism” emphasizes the need for the tourism industry to reassess strategies for wildlife habitat preservation—a crucial element for sustaining Uganda’s tourism sector. A notable feature of POATE 2024 is the ban on single-use plastics at the venue, aligning with global environmental efforts.
During the launch of the 2024 expo late last year, Lilly Ajarova, the UTB Chief Executive Officer, stressed the importance of early preparation to minimize non-biodegradable plastic usage. Stringent measures will be enforced at the venue to prohibit the entry of single-use plastic items, which will be collected at the gates and sent for recycling, reinforcing the commitment to responsible waste management.
As POATE 2024 takes shape, it aims not only to showcase Uganda’s tourism potential but also to lead by example in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
