By Kayaga Josephine
More than 200 international buyers and media personalities attending the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026 were treated to an unforgettable celebration of Uganda’s cultural diversity during a colourful Cultural Gala hosted by the Uganda Tourism Board at the famous Ndere Cultural Centre.
Held on Friday evening as part of the ongoing tourism expo activities, the event offered foreign guests a deeper glimpse into Uganda’s traditions, music, dance and cuisine in a lively showcase aimed at promoting the country’s cultural identity to the world.
The gala came alive through energetic performances by the renowned Ndere Troupe, whose dancers and drummers entertained guests with traditional music and performances inspired by Uganda’s diverse communities.Through colourful costumes, storytelling and vibrant dance routines, visitors were introduced to the rich traditions of Uganda’s many tribes, each carrying unique customs that continue to shape the nation’s cultural identity.
International guests were also encouraged to participate in the performances, creating moments of interaction and cultural exchange as they learned traditional dance styles and engaged directly with performers throughout the evening.Beyond the performances, visitors sampled a variety of local dishes prepared from different parts of Uganda.
The menu featured cultural favourites including matooke from Buganda and kalo from eastern Uganda, giving guests an authentic taste of the country’s culinary diversity.Speaking during the event, Francis Nyende said culture remains one of Uganda’s strongest tourism attractions and an important tool for promoting national identity.
“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,” he said.Nyende added that cultural tourism not only promotes Uganda internationally but also strengthens pride and belonging among Ugandans themselves.
The event further highlighted Uganda’s growing position as more than a wildlife destination, presenting the country as a rich cultural hub capable of offering immersive and authentic tourism experiences to global travellers.After the gala, several visitors also experienced Kampala’s nightlife, adding another memorable layer to their stay in Uganda.The Cultural Gala formed part of broader efforts by the Uganda Tourism Board to market Uganda as a leading tourism destination by showcasing both its natural attractions and deep cultural heritage.
