KAMPALA, Uganda — The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo is set to return in May, bringing together key industry players, investors and international buyers to promote Uganda’s tourism sector.
The ninth edition of the expo, scheduled to take place from May 21-24 at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort, will be held under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Development.”
According to Lilly Ajarova, CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board, the expo is expected to attract over 70 hosted buyers and 5,000 trade visitors, providing a platform for Ugandan tour operators, hotel owners and other service providers to connect with key global tourism markets.
Ajarova expressed confidence that the expo will significantly raise awareness of Uganda’s tourism potential, building on the success of last year’s event, which generated $580,000 in returns on investment.
The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has also launched a new initiative, “Explore Uganda, Tell Your Story,” aimed at promoting domestic tourism and encouraging Ugandans to share their experiences of the country’s attractions on social media.
The expo will feature familiarization trips for international buyers, showcasing Uganda’s iconic and emerging destinations, as well as business-to-business meetings and networking opportunities.
Doreen Katusiime, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, emphasized the importance of the expo in driving investment in the sector and achieving the government’s goal of increasing tourism’s contribution to the country’s GDP.
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo was established to promote Uganda as a top tourism destination, and has grown into a premier tourism and business networking event in the region.
