President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially opened the 10th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2026) at Speke Resort Munyonyo, using the event to promote Uganda’s tourism industry, economic progress, and the country’s ability to manage public health threats.
Speaking to tourism stakeholders, investors, and international delegates, Museveni addressed concerns surrounding the recent Ebola outbreak, assuring visitors that the situation remains under control and should not cause panic.
The President explained that Ebola spreads mainly through direct physical contact and emphasized that early detection, reporting, and treatment are key in preventing wider transmission.
“I saw many people panicking unnecessarily,” Museveni told delegates, adding that the government has experience handling such outbreaks and understands the measures needed to contain them.
He revealed that the recent cases were linked to cross-border movement from the Democratic Republic of Congo, but said Uganda chose a targeted response instead of shutting down the entire border. According to him, authorities instead focused on limiting activities in areas considered high-risk.
Museveni also used the occasion to market Uganda as one of Africa’s most attractive tourism destinations, pointing to the country’s favorable weather, natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural diversity.
He said Uganda’s location along the Equator gives it a comfortable climate throughout the year, making it ideal for tourism activities in every season.
The President further reflected on Uganda’s long-standing reputation as the “Pearl of Africa,” saying the country continues to stand out because of its peace, hospitality, food, and unique cultural identity.
“When people come to Uganda, they find peace, comfort, good food, and culture,” he said during his address.
On the economy, Museveni said Uganda has already moved into the lower-middle-income category and is now working toward becoming an upper-middle-income economy through sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services.
He also hinted at possible changes to Uganda’s visa policies aimed at making travel easier for tourists and international visitors. Among the proposals being considered is extending visa durations to encourage longer stays in the country.
Tourism officials welcomed the President’s remarks, saying Uganda’s tourism sector continues to recover strongly after the COVID-19 pandemic. They pointed to rising international visitor numbers, improved infrastructure, and growing global interest in Uganda as positive signs for the industry.
Uganda Tourism Board officials said the expo remains one of the country’s biggest tourism marketing events, bringing together travel companies, investors, tour operators, and international buyers to showcase Uganda’s attractions and create new business partnerships.
The annual expo continues to position Uganda as a competitive tourism destination in Africa while promoting investment opportunities across the sector.
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