Uganda will take center stage in 2025 with a celebration of heritage and creativity as the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2025) returns from May 21–24 at the newly expanded Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo. Hosted under the theme “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation,” the event will spotlight Uganda’s tourism potential, cultural wealth, and commitment to sustainability.
At the heart of this prestigious gathering is the highly anticipated opening ceremony on May 21st, featuring the grand musical production “Sounds of the Pearl.”
“Sounds of the Pearl” is a 55-minute musical journey through Uganda’s cultural landscape, told through the eyes of Akena (played by Walter Ruva), a young traveler navigating the country’s diverse kingdoms and natural beauty. He is guided by the spirit of Mother Pearl (voiced by Suzan Kerunen) and the Wisdom Keeper, portrayed by hip-hop legend Navio.
Featuring more than 40 performers from the Crane Performers ensemble, the show blends traditional music and dance with dramatic storytelling, vibrant LED visuals, and narration in multiple languages. From the pounding drums of the Bakiga hills to the elegant ambiance of the Tooro courts and the spirited dances of Karamoja, this is Uganda—alive, proud, and unfiltered.
“This production is a love letter to our homeland—a celebration of who we are, where we’ve come from, and the culture we continue to carry,” said a Ministry of Tourism representative.
Ibrahim and Godfrey Community (IGC): Curating Culture Through Fashion
Spearheading the fashion component of POATE 2025 is IGC – Ibrahim and Godfrey Community, serving as the Official Fashion Curator. IGC will host two exhibitions and dynamic runway shows that emphasize sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural pride.
The centerpiece of their presentation is a collection of 10 high-fashion outfits made from Lubugo (barkcloth), reimagined into stunning ready-to-wear and couture styles. This bold expression of eco-conscious fashion will greet guests at the entrance of the convention centre.
Additional designers featured include; Mawejje Creations, Sanvra, Amylia Clothing and Kibirango Ogal Gabriel among others.
These labels represent the innovation and promise of Uganda’s growing sustainable fashion sector. The exhibitions run from May 21st to 23rd, with a theatrical runway-and-dance performance debuting during the opening ceremony.
May 24th: Music and Cultural Festival Finale
The expo concludes in style with a grand Music and Cultural Festival on May 24th, bringing together celebrated Ugandan performers: Blu 3 (reunion performance), Winnie Nwagi, Aliddeki Brian and Ssuna Ben among others.
Hosted by comedian Salvado, and media personalities Sheilla Gashumba and Sheilla Salta, fashion takes center stage once again with two iconic runway shows: “The Evolution of Lubugo,” “The Evolution of Kikoyi” presented by My Fashion Biography.
Ticket Cost
May 21–23: Free access to all POATE 2025 exhibitions and showcases
May 24 Festival Tickets:
Ordinary: Shs20,000 and VIP is at Shs50,000 only.
Available via www.tagticketing.com
POATE is organized by Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) in partnership with Uganda Wildlife Authority, Talent Africa Group, Skills Excel, Uganda Tourism Association and Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute.
For more information and updates, please visit www.talentafricagroup.com or Follow IGC on Instagram: @igc_fashion
