Nation Media Group Uganda (NMG-U) journalist Edgar Raymond Batte has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to tourism journalism after winning the prestigious Best Tourism Storyteller Award at the 2026 Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) Awards.
The awards ceremony, held on Saturday night at Speke Resort Munyonyo, celebrated individuals, organisations and creatives making an impact in Uganda’s tourism sector through innovation, sustainability and storytelling.
Batte walked away with a cash prize of Shs3 million in recognition of his dedication to documenting Uganda’s tourism, culture and lifestyle experiences through compelling journalism that has helped showcase the country to both local and international audiences.
Over the years, Batte has established himself as one of Uganda’s most recognisable tourism and lifestyle storytellers, earning praise for his ability to capture authentic travel experiences, cultural heritage and human interest narratives that reflect the country’s unique identity.
The recognition comes as Uganda continues to strengthen efforts to position itself as a leading tourism destination, with storytelling increasingly viewed as a key tool in shaping global perceptions and attracting visitors.
The tourism awards were introduced as part of celebrations marking 50 years of cooperation between Uganda and the European Union. Organisers said the initiative seeks to recognise excellence, creativity and innovation across Uganda’s tourism and creative sectors while encouraging high-quality storytelling around tourism, sustainability and destination marketing.
According to organisers, the awards are also intended to strengthen community identity and create more opportunities for Ugandan creatives contributing to tourism promotion.
Batte was among several winners recognised during the colourful ceremony.
Africa Runners Co. Limited emerged winner of the Best Tourism Booth/Exhibitor category, while Ruboni Community Camp took home the Best Tourism Community Programme award for its efforts in community-based tourism.
Nile Safari Lodge was recognised as the Best Eco Lodge, while Destination Jungle won the Best Eco Tour Operator category.
In photography, Ssebuuma Ivan won Best Tourism Photographer (Professional), while Alex Busingye emerged winner in the amateur category.
Nakabugo Queen Tracy was recognised as Best Tourism Influencer, while Welcome to the Pearl of Africa by Soosi won the Best Tourism Documentary award.
Speaking during the ceremony, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Permanent Secretary Doreen Katusiime reassured visitors and tourism stakeholders that Uganda remains a resilient and safe tourism destination despite ongoing global health concerns.
“We want to firmly reassure the global community that Uganda boasts robust, world-class health management systems. We are entirely capable of swiftly averting, managing and overcoming these health challenges,” Katusiime said.
She also urged media practitioners and social media users to report responsibly and avoid alarmist narratives that could negatively affect livelihoods dependent on tourism.
“Most people who visit Uganda leave with glowing testimonies of our famously warm and friendly people and our beautiful year-round weather,” she said, adding that several hosted buyers had also praised Uganda’s culinary diversity and authentic cultural experiences.
Katusiime commended tourism businesses investing in sustainability, innovation and community inclusion, congratulating all nominees and winners for helping strengthen Uganda’s tourism profile.
Uganda Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa described the awards as an important platform for recognising tourism enterprises and creatives championing sustainable tourism.
“As we close the 10th edition of POATE tonight, we also celebrate outstanding individuals and tourism enterprises that have made a significant impact on Uganda’s tourism sector through their commitment to sustainable tourism,” Kagwa said.
Meanwhile, European Union Ambassador to Uganda Jan Sadek announced the launch of the Sustainable Tourism Value Chain Initiative, a new four-year programme aimed at supporting tourism destination development, improving standards, strengthening international marketing and increasing access to finance for tourism enterprises.
“It is ambitious, comprehensive and designed to respond to the needs of the sector,” Sadek said.
The awards marked a fitting close to the 10th edition of POATE, underscoring the growing importance of storytelling, sustainability and collaboration in shaping the future of Uganda’s tourism industry.
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