This year, TIO Tours and Travels had the immense pleasure of participating in the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2024. As one of the largest booths at the event, strategically located at numbers T23, T24, T31, and T32, we showcased our dedication to the tourism industry, engaged with numerous stakeholders, and promoted responsible tourism. Held at the newly opened Convention Bureau of Speke Resort Munyonyo, the event was a spectacular convergence of over 70 hosted buyers, 300 exhibitors, including tourism boards and corporate companies, and over 1000 trade visitors and consumers.

Day One: Responsible Tourism - Doable or Just a Cliché

The theme of this year’s POATE was “Responsible Tourism,” focusing on sustainable practices and ethical tourism. This theme was not only discussed in seminars but also reflected in the organization and execution of the event.

The first day kicked off with a seminar titled “Is Sustainable Tourism Practical or a Catchphrase?” held in Rwenzori Hall from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The session was led by Dr. Ioannis Pappas, Director of the Mediterranean Region GSTC, who provided deep insights into the practicality of sustainable tourism. Dr. Pappas emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable practices into all aspects of tourism, making it clear that responsible tourism is not just a buzzword but a necessary approach for the future.

Following this, the focus shifted to MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Tourism with a seminar on “Igniting Destination Growth by Unleashing the Power of Business Events,” from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Mr. Glenton de Kock, CEO of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry, highlighted the role of sustainable practices in organizing business events and how they contribute to overall destination growth.

The evening culminated in a vibrant Cultural Gala at Ndere Cultural Centre in Kampala, where traditional dances and music showcased the rich cultural heritage of Uganda. This celebration not only entertained but also reinforced the importance of preserving and promoting cultural traditions as part of responsible tourism.

Day Two: Emerging Trends and Sustainable Financing

The second day was primarily focused on exhibitions and B2B engagements. From 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the Rwenzori Convention Centre buzzed with activity as exhibitors and visitors engaged in meaningful discussions and networked to explore potential collaborations.

One of the key seminars of the day, “Emerging Trends in Tourism,” was held from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Rwenzori Hall. Dr. Geoffrey Manyara from UNECA spoke about the latest trends shaping the tourism industry, such as digital transformation, eco-tourism, and community-based tourism. His insights were invaluable for understanding the direction in which the industry is heading and how businesses can adapt to stay relevant.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to sustainable financing in the tourism sector. From 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM, Ramathan Ggoobi, PSST from the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (MOFPED), led a seminar on “A Funder’s Perspective to Tourism Business Investment and Sustainability.” This session provided a comprehensive overview of the financial aspects of sustainable tourism, emphasizing the importance of green investment growth and the role of funding in achieving sustainability goals.

The day concluded with a delightful “Kampala by Night Experience,” where participants explored the vibrant nightlife of Kampala, followed by a Tourism Board Dinner at the Speke Resort Convention Centre. These events offered attendees a chance to relax, socialize, and enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

Day Three: Celebrating Achievements and Building Future Partnerships

The final day continued with the exhibition and B2B engagements from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The highlight of the day was the POATE Sustainability Awards & Closing Ceremony held at the Sunset Restaurant, Speke Resort Convention Centre, at 6:00 PM. This ceremony celebrated the achievements of various stakeholders in promoting responsible tourism and recognized their efforts in making the industry more sustainable.

Throughout the expo, TIO Tours and Travels interacted with numerous stakeholders, forging new connections and laying the groundwork for future partnerships. Our booth was a hub of activity, attracting a large number of visitors with our engaging presentations, informative materials, and interactive displays. One of the major highlights was our giveaway for an all-expenses-paid trip to Zanzibar. The excitement reached its peak on the final day when we drew the winner, Baku Limbaya George, a student at the International University of East Africa (IUEA), live at our booth. His joy and surprise added a festive touch to the closing moments of the expo.

Additionally, the expo featured traditional dance performances and an art exhibition area, which added a cultural richness to the event. These elements not only entertained visitors but also highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage as a key component of responsible tourism.

Reflecting on POATE 2024

POATE 2024 was a remarkable event that underscored the significance of responsible tourism. The seminars provided valuable insights into sustainable practices, emerging trends, and the importance of green investment. The cultural events and exhibitions highlighted the rich heritage and vibrant potential of Uganda’s tourism industry.

For TIO Tours and Travels, participating in POATE 2024 was an invaluable experience. It allowed us to showcase our commitment to sustainable tourism, connect with industry leaders, and engage with potential partners. The event not only enhanced our visibility but also reinforced our position as a leader in the tourism industry. We look forward to building on the connections made at POATE 2024 and continuing our journey towards promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.