Kenya-Uganda tourism conference highlights sustainability, innovation
Tourism stakeholders have pledged to champion environmentally sustainable initiatives to ensure the growth of the tourism industry and other economic activities.
During the third edition of the Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, held over two days in Entebbe, Uganda, players from both countries emphasized the direct relationship between environmental conservation and a thriving tourism industry.
Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister, John Mulimba, urged the sector to prioritize environmental protection through practices that preserve natural beauty and uphold cultural integrity.
“Our collaboration is not solely about enhancing tourism; it is about creating jobs that uplift our communities. When we invest in tourism, we invest in livelihoods, supporting entrepreneurs, artisans, service providers, and families who depend on this critical industry,” said Minister Mulimba.
This resolution aligns with the Kenya Tourism Board’s (KTB) “One Tourist, One Tree” campaign, launched two months ago.
The initiative encourages visitors and locals to plant trees, leaving a positive environmental legacy, combating climate change, and conserving landscapes. Each tree symbolizes a shared responsibility for protecting the planet.
Minister Mulimba also stressed the urgency of integrating sustainability into tourism strategies without compromising ecosystems or cultural heritage.
He highlighted the importance of inclusive economic models where tourism proceeds are shared to support livelihoods, ensuring the sector’s long-term viability.
The conference identified key threats to sustainability, including human-wildlife conflict, poverty, and an overreliance on foreign tourists. Stakeholders called for a redefined strategy to grow the domestic market as a cornerstone for tourism’s survival.
Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, expressed optimism about increased tourism exchanges between the two nations. He noted that Kenya welcomed 201,623 Ugandan visitors in 2023, up from 151,121 in 2022.
The anticipated increase in Kenya Airways flights between Entebbe and Nairobi, alongside road travel using national identity cards, has contributed to this growth. Uganda now ranks as Kenya’s second-largest tourist market after the United States.
To further boost regional tourism, Maangi urged the industry to offer budget-friendly packages to make travel more accessible.
“There is a need to demystify the myth that tourism is a reserve for foreigners or the rich. Make travel costs affordable to more people, without compromising service quality,” he said.
The High Commissioner also highlighted opportunities to capitalize on regional events, such as the Elgon Championship Rugby Cup, the WRC Safari Rally, and the upcoming AFCON 2027, by offering affordable travel packages tailored for Ugandan tourists.
Kilifi County Deputy Governor, Flora Mbetsa Chibule, outlined her county’s efforts to enhance eco-tourism, preserve cultural heritage, and improve infrastructure for seamless visitor experiences.
She cited the designation of Gedi Ruins in Malindi as Kenya’s eighth World Heritage Site as a step toward sustaining African culture and heritage.
The Deputy Governor also announced an ambitious new project: “We are soon unveiling Sub-Saharan Africa’s first-ever blue tourism product, an underwater museum at Ngomeni in Kilifi County. This will be a game-changer for the region.”
She emphasized the complementary strengths of Kenya and Uganda in creating unique travel packages.
“Kilifi County’s pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and world-class resorts align seamlessly with Uganda’s adventure tourism, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural richness. Together, we can offer visitors the best of both worlds, coastal serenity and inland adventure,” she said.
The Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference underscored the transformative power of collaboration, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation, inclusivity, and innovative tourism products to ensure the sector’s resilience and long-term success.
The post Kenya-Uganda tourism conference highlights sustainability, innovation first appeared on KBC.
The post Kenya-Uganda tourism conference highlights sustainability, innovation appeared first on KBC.
