President Yoweri Museveni has officially opened the 10th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, calling tourism a key driver of Uganda’s economic growth.
The three-day expo, organised by the Uganda Tourism Board under the theme “Wanderlust,” has brought together international tourism buyers, investors, exhibitors, tour operators, hospitality players, media practitioners and industry leaders from different parts of the world.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Museveni said tourism has the potential to help Uganda achieve upper-middle-income status because it supports service industries such as hospitality, ICT and entertainment.
He noted that activities linked to tourism create jobs, attract foreign exchange and increase Uganda’s visibility on the global stage.
The President also stressed the importance of regional cooperation in growing tourism and trade across East Africa. He said Uganda continues to work closely with neighbouring countries, including Tanzania and Somalia, to strengthen regional integration and create wider economic opportunities.
During the three-day event, Uganda will showcase its tourism potential through exhibitions, business meetings, networking sessions and discussions focused on the future of tourism and sustainable travel in the region.
The expo is expected to attract new investment opportunities, strengthen partnerships among tourism stakeholders and further market Uganda as a leading destination for wildlife, culture, adventure and hospitality tourism.
