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If there’s one thing Ugandans are known for, it is their ability to party hard, and the 2025 Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) festival was no exception.
As the sun set on the final day, the event transformed from formal exhibitions and panel discussions into a vibrant open-air celebration at Munyonyo.
The highlight was Uganda’s iconic gin, Uganda Waragi, paired with the infectious beats of Suuna Ben’s signature ebinyanya, which sent the crowd into a frenzy.
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A Night of Music, Dance and Laughter
Festivalgoers enjoyed a rich mix of live performances and entertainment. Abeeka Band energised the crowd with lively music, while the dance and fashion shows added an unorthodox flair to the evening.
Comedy duo Madrat and Chiko kept spirits high with their hilarious sketches. Yet the pinnacle of the night was the performance by Masaka’s pride, Suuna Ben, whose set saw nearly everyone waving tree branches in the traditional binyanya style.
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Uganda Waragi, the official heritage partner, ensured the celebration was both flavourful and memorable. Attendees sipped on flowing Uganda Waragi cocktails and relaxed in a stunning chill-out area created for the occasion.
Hillary Baguma, Brand Manager for Mainstream Spirits at Uganda Breweries, said, “As Uganda’s heritage gin, we have been at the centre of celebrations such as these to cement the Ugandan culture in unforgettable ways for our consumers.” He added that POATE provided a valuable platform to share Uganda’s spirit with the world.
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Strengthening Uganda’s Tourism and Cultural Identity
Beyond the festivities, POATE 2025 engaged tourism stakeholders through insightful panel discussions on eco-tourism and business matchmaking sessions between local operators and international buyers. This reinforced Uganda’s growing reputation as Africa’s next great travel destination.
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Throughout the four days, Uganda Waragi also showcased its rich history, displaying its various gin variants that mark the brand’s 60-year legacy deeply woven into Ugandan culture.
The 9th edition of POATE closed on a high note, leaving behind a melting pot of ideas and partnerships set to fuel future celebrations and growth. With more reasons to raise a glass — or a tree branch — Ugandans once again proved why their nation is truly the Pearl of Africa.