By Kayaga Josephine
Veteran journalist Edgar Raymond Batte has been honoured with the Best Tourism Storyteller Award at the 2026 Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) Awards in recognition of his contribution to tourism journalism in Uganda.
The colourful awards ceremony was held at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Saturday night, bringing together tourism stakeholders, creatives and industry leaders to celebrate excellence in tourism promotion, innovation and sustainability.
Batte, who works with Nation Media Group Uganda, received a cash prize of Shs3 million for his impactful storytelling that has consistently highlighted Uganda’s tourism potential, culture and lifestyle experiences.
Over the years, the respected journalist has built a reputation for producing engaging travel and human-interest stories that showcase Uganda’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and unique experiences to both local and international audiences.
The recognition comes at a time when Uganda is intensifying efforts to position itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa, with storytelling increasingly playing a central role in destination marketing and shaping global perceptions.
The tourism awards were organised as part of celebrations marking 50 years of cooperation between Uganda and the European Union. Organisers said the initiative was aimed at rewarding creativity, innovation and sustainable tourism promotion across the country.Several other tourism players and creatives were also recognised during the ceremony.
Africa Runners Co. Limited won the Best Tourism Booth/Exhibitor category, while Ruboni Community Camp received the Best Tourism Community Programme award.Nile Safari Lodge emerged as Best Eco Lodge, while Destination Jungle won the Best Eco Tour Operator category.
In the photography categories, Ssebuuma Ivan won Best Tourism Photographer (Professional), while Alex Busingye took the amateur award.Speaking during the ceremony, Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, reassured visitors and tourism stakeholders that Uganda remains a safe and resilient tourism destination despite global health concerns.
She also encouraged responsible reporting and urged media practitioners to avoid alarmist narratives that could negatively impact tourism and related livelihoods.Meanwhile, Juliana Kagwa described the awards as an important platform for recognising individuals and enterprises promoting sustainable tourism in Uganda.
European Union Ambassador to Uganda Jan Sadek also announced a new four-year Sustainable Tourism Value Chain Initiative aimed at supporting destination development, improving tourism standards and strengthening international marketing for Uganda’s tourism sector.The awards ceremony marked the close of the 10th edition of POATE, highlighting the growing importance of storytelling, sustainability and collaboration in shaping the future of Uganda’s tourism industry.