More than 200 international hosted buyers and media personalities attending the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2026 got a memorable taste of Uganda’s rich cultural diversity during a spectacular Cultural Gala hosted by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) at the iconic Ndere Cultural Centre in Kampala.
Held on Friday evening as part of the ongoing POATE 2026 activities, the gala transformed into a vibrant showcase of Uganda’s cultural identity, offering guests an immersive experience of the country’s music, dance, cuisine and traditions in a celebration designed to leave a lasting impression of the Pearl of Africa.
The night came alive with electrifying performances from the renowned Ndere Troupe, whose dancers and performers took guests on an artistic journey across Uganda’s diverse cultural landscape. Through energetic performances, traditional music and colourful costumes, audiences were introduced to the distinct heritage of Uganda’s 50 tribes, each with unique customs and expressions that continue to shape the country’s identity.
Beyond being spectators, international visitors were invited to actively take part in the experience, learning traditional dance moves and interacting with performers in a lively cultural exchange that deepened their appreciation of Uganda’s communities and way of life.
The evening also offered guests a culinary adventure, with an elaborate spread of authentic Ugandan dishes drawn from different regions of the country. From Buganda’s beloved matooke to eastern Uganda’s hearty kalo, visitors sampled local delicacies that reflected the nation’s cultural richness and culinary diversity.
Speaking at the event, Uganda Tourism Board Marketing Manager Francis Nyende said showcasing Uganda’s culture to the world remains one of the country’s strongest tourism assets.
“Showcasing Uganda’s culture, our music, our food, our dances to the world is one of the most powerful things we can do as a nation. For Ugandans, this is deeply personal. Our culture is our identity and our pride. When the world sees and celebrates what we have, it fills every Ugandan heart with immense joy and a renewed sense of belonging,” Nyende said.
The gala further reinforced Uganda’s growing reputation as more than just a destination for wildlife and natural beauty, positioning the country as a cultural hub with experiences capable of attracting global travellers seeking authentic and immersive tourism.
After an evening filled with cultural performances, traditional flavours and vibrant interactions, the international guests capped off the night by experiencing Kampala’s buzzing nightlife, adding another layer to Uganda’s hospitality offering.
The Cultural Gala formed part of broader efforts by UTB to market Uganda as a premier tourism destination through experiences that celebrate both its natural wonders and deep cultural heritage.
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