Uganda to Welcome Africa’s Destination Celebration Leaders
Uganda is set to welcome travel, tourism, and events professionals from across Africa and beyond for the inaugural Africa Destination Celebrations Conference and Expo (ADCCE). Planned for March 23–27, 2026 in Kampala, this landmark gathering aims to position Africa as a global hub for destination celebrations—from weddings and festivals to corporate milestones and cultural showcases.
What is ADCCE and Why It Matters
The Africa Destination Celebrations Conference and Expo is designed to bring together planners, operators, venue owners, investors, and government representatives to share trends, forge partnerships, and explore investment opportunities in the events sector. As Africa continues to grow as an experiential economy, ADCCE will offer a dedicated platform for knowledge exchange, peer learning, and deal-making that supports sustainable tourism and local economies.
Key objectives
- Showcase African destinations as premier locations for celebrations and events
- Foster cross-border collaboration among suppliers, venues, and service providers
- Provide actionable insights on trends such as eco-friendly events, tech-enabled experiences, and cultural authenticity
- Attract investment in events infrastructure, including venues, transportation, and hospitality services
Kampala as the Event’s Host City
Kampala, Uganda’s vibrant capital, will serve as the backdrop for ADCCE’s inaugural edition. The city’s mix of modern facilities, cultural richness, and accessible regional hub status makes it an ideal setting for a conference and expo focused on celebrations. Organizers highlight the city’s capacity to connect attendees with diverse venues—from historic sites and luxury hotels to convention centers and open-air spaces—enhancing practical planning for future celebrations.
Event Structure and Highlights
Over five days, ADCCE will blend conference sessions with a bustling expo floor. Attendees can expect keynote talks by industry leaders, panel discussions on revenue models for destination celebrations, and case studies from successful African events. The expo will feature exhibitors spanning venues, catering, decor, event tech, security, and destination management services. Practical workshops will cover licensing, risk management, sustainability, and inclusive event practices.
Why Africa Needs a Destination Celebrations Hub
Africa’s events market is expanding rapidly, driven by a growing middle class, increasing disposable income, and a rising appetite for authentic, culturally resonant experiences. By centralizing knowledge sharing and business development, ADCCE will help African destinations elevate their profiles on the global stage. The conference also aligns with broader regional strategies to diversify economies and create jobs in tourism, hospitality, and creative industries.
What Attendees Can Expect
Participants will gain opportunities to network with peers, discover new service providers, and explore partnerships with cross-border potential. The event is expected to attract international buyers, media, and travel trade professionals, all seeking to understand how Africa’s destinations can deliver memorable, responsible, and profitable celebrations.
Planning for 2026 and Beyond
Organizers are prioritizing accessibility, inclusivity, and sustainable practices. Details on registration, keynote speakers, and the exhibitor roster will be released in the lead-up to March 2026. The ADCCE team envisions a recurring platform that will continue to spotlight Africa’s capacity to host world-class celebrations while supporting local communities and preserving cultural integrity.
Conclusion
With Uganda hosting the first Africa Destination Celebrations Conference and Expo, 2026 promises to be a turning point for the continent’s events industry. The gathering aims to unlock new opportunities, foster collaborative networks, and showcase Africa as a premier destination for celebrations that are beautiful, sustainable, and economically impactful.
