Uganda Gears Up for Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo with Focus on Responsible Tourism
Frank Semata 
Uganda gears up to host the highly anticipated Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2024.
This year's theme "Responsible Tourism", represents Uganda's dedication to sustainable travel practices and ethical tourism experiences.
"As we gather for this year's POATE, let's exemplify how sustainability and success go hand in hand." Noted UTB CEO, Lilly Ajarova
The essence of responsible tourism in Uganda encompasses various initiatives aimed at minimizing environmental impact and fostering respectful interactions with wildlife and local communities.
Among the key focuses are:
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Slowing Down Safaris: By extending the duration spent in each destination, tour operators aim to reduce the carbon footprint associated with travel while allowing visitors to immerse themselves deeply in the local culture and environment.
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Respecting Great Apes: Upholding strict guidelines for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, ensuring that trackers maintain a minimum distance of 10 meters from these magnificent creatures at all times. This commitment to respecting wildlife ensures their well-being and minimizes disturbance to their natural habitat.
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Eliminating Single-Use Plastic: Taking proactive steps to remove single-use plastic from safari vehicles and tours, promoting eco-friendly alternatives and reducing plastic pollution in Uganda's pristine landscapes.
These initiatives represent just a glimpse of the comprehensive efforts underway to make tourism in Uganda more responsible and sustainable.
However, there is a recognition that responsible tourism entails a broader spectrum of considerations, encompassing issues such as community empowerment, cultural preservation, and wildlife conservation.
The 3-day event will take place at Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Kampala from the 23rd to the 25th of May 2024.
