If there’s one thing Uganda does best, it’s turning every occasion into a moment worth dancing for—and POATE 2025 was no exception.
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo wrapped up in style as Suuna Ben, Uganda Waragi, and thousands of revellers turned Munyonyo into a festival of sound, flavour, and cultural pride.
By sunset on the final day, the mood had shifted. What started as an industry-focused exhibition quickly transformed into an open-air celebration of Ugandan identity.
Music, fashion, comedy, and heritage came together in a colourful, unapologetic climax that could only happen here.
Suuna Ben Sets the Crowd on Fire
The undisputed highlight? Masaka’s musical powerhouse Suuna Ben, whose infectious ebinyanya rhythms had nearly every attendee waving tree branches in perfect unison.
The energy was electric. His signature dance move wasn’t just a performance—it became a shared national moment.
Uganda Waragi: The Spirit of the Celebration
Playing its role as official heritage partner, Uganda Waragi made sure the celebration was both spirited and stylish. From custom cocktail bars to immersive heritage displays, the brand showed why it’s been at the heart of Ugandan festivities for over 60 years.
“As Uganda’s heritage gin, we’ve always been part of iconic celebrations like POATE to keep our culture alive in flavourful ways,” said Hillary Baguma, Brand Manager for Mainstream Spirits at Uganda Breweries.
Festival-goers were treated to Uganda Waragi’s range of gins—including classics and new variants—symbolising both tradition and innovation in one proud pour.
Four Days of Culture, Deals, and Pure Ugandan Vibes
Beyond the party, POATE 2025 delivered substance. High-level forums on eco-tourism, one-on-one business matchmaking, and panel sessions created opportunities for tourism stakeholders to pitch Uganda as Africa’s next great travel destination.
But numbers aside, what truly defined this year’s expo was the feeling. From the moment gates opened to the last note of Suuna Ben’s set, there was a sense of pride, togetherness, and joy that you simply can’t export—it can only be experienced here.
The ninth edition of POATE ended not with a press release, but with a toast: to Ugandan culture, Ugandan sound, and the Ugandan spirit.
And as Uganda Waragi reminded us, every great celebration deserves a great drink. Or a tree branch.
