Uganda Tourism Board, in partnership with the Delegation of the European Union to Uganda and key tourism stakeholders, has officially unveiled the inaugural Pearl of Africa Tourism Awards 2026 in a move aimed at recognizing excellence and innovation within Uganda’s tourism sector.
The announcement was made during an event held at the European Union offices in Kampala, where organizers revealed that the winners will be honored during the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) scheduled for May 23, 2026 at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The awards are expected to celebrate outstanding achievements across various segments of the tourism value chain, including storytelling, conservation, eco-tourism, media, photography, innovation, and community-driven tourism initiatives.
Tourism operators, conservationists, media practitioners, influencers, photographers, and members of the public have been invited to submit entries and nominate deserving individuals and organizations.
Speaking at the launch, UTB Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer Samora M. Semakula described the initiative as a major step toward strengthening professionalism and competitiveness in Uganda’s tourism industry.
“These awards are a celebration of the people and organisations who are quietly doing extraordinary work to put Uganda on the global tourism map,” Semakula said.
“By formally recognising excellence in storytelling, conservation, eco-tourism, and community programmes, we are not just handing out trophies, we are setting a standard. We are telling the world that Uganda’s tourism industry is professional, innovative, and ready to compete,” he added.
Categories to Recognize Tourism Excellence
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Awards will feature multiple categories designed to ensure broad participation across the sector. Some categories will include cash prizes funded by the European Union under the UG-EU@50 partnership celebrating 50 years of EU-Uganda cooperation.
The categories include:
- Best Tourism Documentary 2026
- Best Community Tourism Programme/CSR Initiative
- Best Tourism Photographer
- Best Tourism Storyteller
- Best Tourism Influencer
- Best New Tourism Product 2026
- Best Eco Lodge 2026
- Best Eco Tour Operator 2026
- Best Booth Stand/Exhibitor at POATE 2026
EU Reaffirms Support for Uganda’s Tourism Sector
The European Union said its involvement reflects a longstanding commitment to supporting sustainable tourism development in Uganda.
According to officials, EU member states have invested more than EUR 40 million in Uganda’s tourism sector, including through the ongoing “We Explore” project valued at EUR 15.5 million and implemented by organizations such as ENABLE, UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCDF.
The initiative focuses on promoting Uganda as a global tourism destination, improving financing opportunities for tourism businesses, strengthening the sector’s business environment, and ensuring communities benefit from tourism growth.
EU Ambassador to Uganda Jan Sadek said tourism remains a powerful driver of economic transformation and cultural exchange.
“Tourism transcends economics, it bridges cultures, drives inclusive growth, and showcases Uganda’s unparalleled natural and cultural heritage to the world,” Ambassador Sadek said.
He added that the awards complement broader EU efforts aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, environmental protection, private sector growth, and youth and women empowerment.
Ambassador Sadek also highlighted the role of EMPCO, an EU framework supporting small and medium enterprises to adopt sustainable tourism practices, eco-certification, and fair trade standards to improve access to European markets.
Sector Positioned for Global Competitiveness
Tourism stakeholders described the launch of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Awards as a sign of a maturing industry increasingly focused on quality standards, innovation, and international competitiveness.
Officials say the awards will not only celebrate achievement but also help position Uganda more strongly as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations.
Entries and nominations for the Pearl of Africa Tourism Awards 2026 are now officially open through the Uganda Tourism Board.
