Kampala, Uganda: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Thursday officially opened the 10th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, reaffirming government’s commitment to tourism as a strategic pillar for Uganda’s economic transformation and global visibility.
The three-day expo, organised by the Uganda Tourism Board under the theme “Wanderlust,” has attracted international buyers, tourism investors, exhibitors, tour operators, hospitality players, media practitioners and industry leaders from across the world.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, President Museveni described tourism as one of the sectors capable of accelerating Uganda’s journey towards upper-middle-income status through service-based industries such as hospitality, ICT and entertainment.
“Tourism is anchored in services such as entertainment, ICT, and hospitality, and your presence here today contributes to advancing Uganda’s income status and visibility on the international stage,” Museveni said.
The President also highlighted Uganda’s efforts towards strengthening regional integration, noting that cooperation with neighbouring countries remains critical in boosting trade, tourism and economic opportunities across East Africa.
“We have also continued working closely with our neighbours, including Tanzania and Somalia, to strengthen regional integration, build one market, and address the distortions created by colonial boundaries,” he added.
The President also addressed public concerns surrounding Ebola, assuring both Ugandans and international visitors that government was managing the situation scientifically without disrupting economic activity.
“Regarding Ebola, there is no cause for alarm. We are applying targeted measures and continuing to work scientifically to keep people safe while keeping our economy open,” he stated.
Museveni further revealed that government plans to improve tourism infrastructure and visitor experiences as Uganda’s economy continues to expand.
“As our economy grows towards upper-middle-income status, we shall also improve the tourism experience, including friendlier visa arrangements to attract more visitors. I therefore welcome the world to come and explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa,” he added.
Over the next three days, Uganda will showcase its tourism potential through strategic engagements, business networking sessions, exhibitions and discussions aimed at shaping the future of tourism and sustainable travel across the region.
The expo is expected to strengthen partnerships among tourism stakeholders, attract investment opportunities, promote Uganda’s tourism products internationally and further position the country as a leading destination for wildlife, culture, adventure and hospitality experiences.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
