By Nova Play Team
Excitement is building among travel enthusiasts and industry professionals as the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) collaborates with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) to prepare for the much-anticipated Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025. This flagship event is set to unfold from May 21 to May 24, 2025, at the newly renovated Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, with the theme “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation.”
This expo is poised to connect a diverse range of global tourism stakeholders, spotlighting Uganda’s unwavering dedication to sustainable tourism practices. As Uganda embraces its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the expo will serve as an invaluable platform for fostering discussions on sustainable strategies in the tourism sector.
The expo’s launch will feature a grand opening ceremony on May 21, highlighted by “Sounds of the Pearl,” a captivating 55-minute musical journey showcasing Uganda’s vibrant cultural tapestry. The performance will narrate the story of Akena, heroically portrayed by Walter Ruva, as he traverses Uganda’s stunning landscapes. His journey will be guided by the enchanting Mother Pearl, played by Suzan Kerunen, alongside the insightful Wisdom Keeper, Navio.
This dynamic production merges traditional Ugandan music and dance performed by the renowned Crane Performers with contemporary fashion, thanks to a collaboration between IGC and Bold Africa. Attendees can expect a full spectrum of artistic expression, spotlighting Uganda’s diverse cultural heritage—from the rhythmic beats of Bakiga music to the noble courts of Tooro and the spirited heritage of Karamoja—enhanced by over 40 performers and state-of-the-art LED visuals.
Moreover, IGC will take on the crucial role of Official Fashion Curator for POATE 2025, prioritizing sustainability and cultural integrity. The fashion component will include two major exhibitions and runway shows that emphasize eco-friendly design practices. A special highlight will be an extraordinary collection made from Lubugo, or barkcloth, featuring ten unique outfits that encapsulate both casual and haute couture styling, cleverly showcased at the Speke Resort’s entrance.
Local designers will also be in the spotlight, as the expo provides a platform for Ugandan talents like Mawejje Creations, Amylia Clothing, Sanvra, and Kibirango Ogal Gabriel. Enthusiasts are invited to experience the vibrant energy of Uganda’s fashion industry from May 21 to May 23, culminating in an electrifying runway event during the official opening that will include dance pieces embodying Uganda’s fashion evolution.
The event will conclude with a spectacular music and cultural festival on May 24, showcasing beloved African artists like Blu 3, Ssuna Ben, Winnie Nwagi, and comedian Salvado, who will co-host this lively finale alongside Sheilla Gashumba and Sheilla Salta.
In an exciting twist, IGC will return to the main stage for two exhilarating runway shows, titled “The Evolution of Lubugo” and “The Evolution of Kikoyi,” both presented by My Fashion Biography.
POATE 2025 is enthusiastically supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and a host of key partners such as Skills Excel, Uganda Tourism Association, and the Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute. This initiative’s fashion segment is brought to life through a collaboration with the British Council Uganda, Bold in Africa, and ORM.
For those desiring to delve deeper into this vibrant event, further details can be found at www.talentafricagroup.com. Admission to the expo is free from May 21 to 23, while tickets for the grand finale Music and Cultural Festival on May 24 are priced at UGX 20,000 for general access and UGX 50,000 for VIP entry, available at www.tagticketing.com. And to catch the latest in fashion updates from POATE, follow IGC on Instagram at @igc_fashion.
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