In anticipation of the eighth edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) scheduled for May 23rd to 25th, 2024, the Ministry of Tourism and the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) are actively implementing measures to address previous shortcomings and ensure the success of the event.
This expo serves as a pivotal platform for showcasing Uganda’s tourism potential and fostering collaboration among local and international stakeholders in the tourism sector. The chosen theme for the upcoming POATE is “Responsible Tourism,” underlining a commitment to preserving Uganda’s rich natural heritage.
State Minister for Tourism, Martin Mugarra, has emphasized the inclusive nature of the preparations, with a specific focus on incorporating insights from the private sector. This approach seeks to make POATE a collective responsibility and address concerns raised by stakeholders who felt excluded during the seventh edition, which faced criticism and boycotts, particularly from private sector players in the tourism services value chain.
The theme of “Responsible Tourism” goes beyond symbolism, emphasizing the need for the tourism industry to reassess strategies for wildlife habitat preservation—a critical element for sustaining Uganda’s tourism sector. Notably, there is a ban on single-use plastics at the venue, aligning with global environmental efforts. Minister Mugarra commends this decision, highlighting the intrinsic link between tourism and the environment, positioning Uganda as a responsible player in the sustainable tourism landscape.
UTB CEO Lilly Ajarova underscores the importance of early preparation to minimize non-biodegradable plastic usage. Stringent measures will be enforced at the venue to prohibit the entry of single-use plastic items, which will be collected at the gates and sent for recycling, reinforcing the commitment to responsible waste management.