The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, has officially launched the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2026, marking the start of preparations for Uganda’s premier tourism and B2B marketing event. The launch ceremony took place at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and key sector stakeholders.Scheduled for 21st to 23rd May 2026 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, POATE 2026 will run under the theme “Wanderlust – It’s Your Time to Thrive,” a message that reflects Uganda’s renewed optimism and commitment to sustainable economic recovery and tourism growth.According to the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), this year’s theme highlights the country’s intention to boost sector resilience and tap into new opportunities in the global travel market.Wide-Ranging Engagements Ahead of ExpoThe launch signals the beginning of a series of nationwide stakeholder engagements leading up to the main expo. POATE 2026 is expected to attract tourism professionals, international buyers, investors, media, and other industry actors from across Africa and beyond.The Expo will serve as a comprehensive platform to showcase Uganda’s vast tourism offerings from adventure and wildlife to culture, heritage, and the fast-growing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) segment.Speaking during the launch, Juliana Kagwa, Chief Executive Officer of UTB, highlighted the strategic weight POATE carries for the sector.“POATE 2026 comes at a time when Uganda’s tourism sector is regaining strong momentum. We are inviting the world to reconnect with Uganda, a country of resilience, diversity, and opportunity. This is a defining moment for our industry to thrive through collaboration, innovation, and purposeful marketing.”Representing the private sector, Isa Kato, Vice President of the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA), expressed confidence in the industry’s preparedness to harness the Expo’s opportunities.“The theme speaks directly to the spirit of our industry. Ugandan tourism enterprises are resilient, innovative, and fully prepared to re-engage global markets. POATE 2026 provides the environment, the connections, and the momentum the private sector needs to thrive in the coming year.”UTB Board Chairperson Pearl Kakooza emphasized the Expo’s role in elevating Uganda’s competitive edge within the regional tourism landscape.“Our renewed optimism as a country aligns perfectly with this year’s theme. The tourism industry has a vital role in translating that optimism into tangible gains. POATE 2026 will create the space for business leaders, government, and private players to chart a shared path towards prosperity.”In his keynote remarks, Minister Tom Butime reiterated the government’s dedication to strengthening tourism as a cornerstone of national development.Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime“Through POATE, Uganda is not only marketing its natural and cultural wealth but also reinforcing partnerships that fuel investment, job creation, and sustainable development. The Ministry remains committed to ensuring that tourism continues to thrive as a pillar of national growth.”As Uganda ushers in a revitalized tourism season, POATE 2026 is set to shape the industry’s direction for years to come. The theme “Wanderlust – Your Time to Thrive” encapsulates the spirit of discovery and renewed confidence driving the country’s tourism ambitions.UTB has called on local stakeholders, regional partners, and the global travel trade to take part in what is expected to be a transformative event for the nation’s tourism sector.POATE 2026 promises to be a platform for idea-sharing, partnership-building, and unlocking new business opportunities, positioning Uganda firmly on the global tourism map.The post POATE 2026: Uganda’s Tourism Industry Gears Up for a Year of Revival and Opportunity appeared first on The Insider.