The 2025 edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) officially launched in grand style with a stunning cultural production titled “Sounds of the Pearl”, hosted at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Uganda.This 55-minute live musical production marked the official opening ceremony of POATE 2025, bringing together Uganda’s rich cultural heritage through music, fashion, dance, and storytelling. The production is a major highlight in Uganda’s effort to spotlight tourism through authentic African experiences.
At the heart of the show is Akena, a fictional traveler played by Walter Ruva, who journeys through Uganda’s diverse cultural landscapes and kingdoms. Along the way, he is guided by the mystical spirit Mother Pearl, portrayed by singer and cultural icon Suzan Kerunen, and The Wisdom Keeper, played by Ugandan hip-hop legend Navio.
Together, they bring to life the beauty of Uganda’s regions—from the rhythmic energy of the Bakiga, the royal atmosphere of the Tooro Kingdom, to the ancestral strength of Karamoja. The production features over 40 performers from the Crane Performers ensemble and was enhanced with high-tech LED visuals and multilingual narration that immersed the audience into a deeply Pan-African experience.
To elevate the celebration of Ugandan identity, the production also featured a fashion showcase curated by the eco-conscious label IGC. The standout exhibit included 10 avant-garde outfits crafted from Lubugo (barkcloth), reimagining traditional materials into high fashion statements. Other Ugandan fashion houses such as Mawejje Creations, Amylia Clothing, Sanvra, and Kibirango Ogal Gabriel also showcased innovative cultural designs that blended sustainability with bold aesthetics.
This year’s POATE is themed “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, and it runs from May 21st to May 24th. The event brings together local and international stakeholders in tourism, fashion, entertainment, and investment to explore Uganda’s potential as a top destination in Africa.
The grand finale, scheduled for May 24th, will feature performances from some of Africa’s most loved talents including Blu 3, Winnie Nwagi, Ssuna Ben, and Aliddeki Brian, with media personalities Sheilla Gashumba and Sheilla Salta hosting alongside comedian Salvado.
Tickets to the final event are available via www.tagticketing.com with Ordinary entry at UGX 20,000 and VIP access at UGX 50,000.
Stay tuned to EIIGHANA AFRICA for full coverage of POATE 2025, artist highlights, and cultural showcases celebrating the spirit of East Africa.