Speke Resort and Convention Centre in Munyonyo has been confirmed as the official venue for the 10th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2026, scheduled for May 21–23 next year.
The announcement was made on Friday by Tourism Minister Tom Butime during the official launch held at Sheraton Kampala Hotel. The Expo, one of Uganda’s biggest tourism events, is designed to boost the country’s visibility as a premier global destination.
Why Speke Resort Was Chosen
As Uganda’s flagship conference complex, Speke Resort is widely recognised for hosting high-level regional and international gatherings. Its combination of world-class conference halls, luxury accommodation, and a lakeside setting makes it an ideal venue for an event expected to attract top tourism buyers, investors and media from around the world.
The resort’s facilities—including East and Central Africa’s largest convention spaces—offer a conducive environment for business-to-business meetings, exhibitions and deal-making. Additional amenities such as the Speke Gym, the Calabash Spa and Salon, and a state-of-the-art swimming pool make the venue suitable for both work and leisure.
About POATE 2026
POATE 2026 will run under the theme “Wanderlust – It’s Your Time to Thrive.” Organised by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), the expo will showcase Uganda’s tourism strengths—from wildlife and adventure travel to cultural heritage and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) tourism.
UTB Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kaggwa said the event comes at a time when the tourism sector is rebounding strongly.
“We are inviting the world to reconnect with Uganda, a country of resilience, diversity and opportunity,” she said.
Private-sector players echoed similar optimism. Uganda Tourism Association Vice President Isa Kato noted that the industry is eager to tap into the partnerships and business opportunities that POATE brings.
“Ugandan tourism enterprises are resilient and ready to re-engage global markets,” he said. “POATE 2026 provides the momentum and connections the sector needs.”
UTB Board Chairperson Pearl Kakooza emphasised that the expo will help strengthen Uganda’s competitive advantage in the region, while Minister Butime reaffirmed government support for tourism as a tool for economic transformation.
“Through POATE, Uganda is not only showcasing its natural and cultural wealth but also reinforcing partnerships that support investment, jobs and sustainable growth,” he said.
With preparations underway, UTB says POATE 2026 will be a pivotal event for collaboration, idea exchange and business growth. Stakeholders from across Africa and beyond are being invited to participate.
By hosting the expo at Speke Resort and Convention Centre, Uganda aims to offer an unmatched experience—combining world-class hospitality, modern infrastructure and a serene environment—to re-energise the country’s tourism brand on the global stage.
