Driving Regional Tourism Growth
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano emphasized that both nations aim to grow sustainable tourism through collaboration, innovation, and investment in local communities. “We are streamlining processes, providing incentives, and building policies that support eco-friendly ventures,” she said. “Together, we target 1.4 million African arrivals.”
This year’s theme, “Leveraging Youth, Innovation and Technology for Responsive and Inclusive Tourism,” highlighted the role of young people and technology in transforming Africa’s tourism landscape.
Uganda: A Vital Source Market
According to Miano, Uganda remains a top source market for Kenya, contributing over 225,000 visitors in 2024—about 9.4% of international arrivals. She noted that the partnership between both countries is “as enduring as the Nile and as strong as the Indian Ocean currents.”
Uganda’s Consul General in Mombasa, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, said Kenya and Uganda complement each other perfectly. “Uganda offers gorilla trekking, while Kenya offers beautiful beaches. By marketing both, tourists enjoy a full East African experience,” he added.
For related updates on regional tourism strategies, visit Sauce.co.ke.
Presidential Backing and Future Plans
The initiative builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in July 2025 between Presidents William Ruto and Yoweri Museveni. The agreement promotes joint tourism marketing, policy alignment, and regional infrastructure development.
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro praised the effort, saying it opens opportunities along the Kenya Coast, a region celebrated for its sandy beaches and Swahili heritage. Experts from the Africa Tourism Board and the World Bank said the partnership will enhance Africa’s tourism competitiveness globally.
The conference included exhibitions, networking forums, and cultural showcases that strengthened collaboration between Kenyan and Ugandan tourism sectors. With shared goals, both countries are poised to make East Africa one of the most desirable travel destinations on the continent.
