By Joseph Ssuuna
Imagine the sizzle of eggs folding into a warm chapati on a bustling Kampala street corner, the aroma wafting through the air as locals and travellers alike queue up for a bite of Uganda’s beloved Rolex. For many Ugandans, this simple yet iconic street food isn’t just a meal—it’s a symbol of home, hustle, and heart. Rolex has become part of daily life, even inspiring festivals that celebrate its humble origins. Now, this everyday delight is about to take centre stage on a much bigger platform, thanks to the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2026.
At the launch of POATE’s 10th edition, Uganda Tourism Board CEO Juliana Kagwa made an announcement that got food lovers and entrepreneurs buzzing. For the first time, food exhibitors will grace the expo’s halls at Speke Resort Munyonyo on the final day, May 23, 2026. “We need to get the best Rolex makers in the house,” she declared with infectious enthusiasm. “If you’re making Kabalagala—those golden pancakes—we need to see your Kabalagala certificate. You need to be UNBS certified.” She didn’t stop there, calling out muwogo (cassava delights) and other street foods that define Uganda’s flavourful soul. “We aim to give our hosted buyers, our visitors, and all the partners a truly Ugandan culinary experience,” Kagwa added, her words painting a picture of unity through taste.
But what does this mean for the average Ugandan?
Beyond the glitz of the expo, it’s a story of real people rising. Take Sarah, a single mother from Gulu who turned her roadside Rolex stand into a small business empire after years of perfecting her recipe. Events like this could be her ticket to the world—UNBS certification isn’t just a badge; it’s a gateway to quality assurance that builds trust and opens doors. By showcasing staples like Rolex, luwombo, and Uganda’s world-renowned coffee, POATE 2026 aims to bridge the gap between local kitchens and global palates. It’s about connecting tourism with the heartbeats of culture, creating investment opportunities that could transform lives.
Picture vendors like Sarah refining their craft to meet international standards, leading to better food service across Uganda. All hotels and restaurants might soon feature these delicacies on their menus, turning a quick street snack into a must-try experience for tourists. For the individuals involved, it’s a brand boost—local heroes going international, sharing stories of resilience and flavour that resonate far beyond borders. And let’s not forget the ripple effect: Uganda’s recent third-place finish as a top adventure destination in Riyadh, out of 190 countries, gets an extra layer of appeal when paired with culinary adventures. Who wouldn’t want to trek through Bwindi’s gorilla trails and cap it off with an authentic Rolex?
As POATE 2026 unfolds from May 21 to 23 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, it’s easy to dream big. Could a day come when fine-dining spots in Paris or New York sneak a Ugandan Rolex onto their menus, adapted with a twist? It’s not far-fetched—it’s the power of food to unite, inspire, and elevate.
