UGANDA /KENYA – A week after the conclusion of the 2024 Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, the event is being hailed as a key milestone for regional tourism collaboration.
Held from November 20 to 21 2024 in Kampala, the conference brought together industry leaders from Uganda and Kenya to strengthen ties, promote sustainable practices, and explore new opportunities in East Africa’s growing tourism sector.
The conference proved productive, delivering actionable outcomes that are expected to benefit the tourism industries of both nations.
Among the highlights was the commitment to develop joint tourism packages, offering seamless travel experiences that combine Uganda’s wildlife and cultural heritage with Kenya’s coastal attractions.
“We believe these packages will not only attract more visitors but also simplify travel across our borders,” said Betty Achieng, a Ugandan tour operator.
Participants also emphasized the importance of sustainability. The “One Tourist, One Tree” initiative, launched during the event, has already gained traction, with stakeholders pledging to encourage eco-conscious tourism practices.
This aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change while preserving East Africa’s natural beauty.
A major focus of the conference was fostering stronger business connections between Ugandan and Kenyan tourism players. Attendees, including hoteliers, tour operators, and conservationists, used the platform to network and form partnerships.
“The conference has opened doors to new collaborations. We’ve already started discussions with Ugandan counterparts about joint marketing campaigns,” said Peter Otieno, a Kenyan hotelier.
Discussions at the event also addressed shared challenges, including human-wildlife conflict, market diversification, and reliance on foreign tourists. The consensus was that promoting domestic and regional tourism could help stabilize the sector against external shocks.
In a post-conference statement, Ugandan tourism minister Grace Nankunda reiterated the importance of regional unity. “Together, we can make East Africa a globally competitive tourism destination. This conference reaffirmed our shared vision for sustainable growth.”
Excursions to Kenya’s coast
Following the Kampala event, selected participants embarked on a familiarization trip to Kenya’s coast, scheduled from November 27 to December 6.
These excursions aim to showcase Kenya’s coastal attractions and encourage collaborative product development between the two countries.
“The excursions are a fantastic way for us to experience the tourism potential firsthand. It’s an opportunity to identify synergies and enhance our joint offerings,” said John Mugisha, a Ugandan travel consultant.
As the conference’s outcomes begin to take shape, optimism is high among stakeholders. The collaborations and initiatives forged in Kampala are expected to enhance tourist arrivals, generate investments, and create jobs in the region.
With commitments to sustainability, improved travel packages, and strengthened networks, the Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference continues to position itself as a cornerstone for East Africa’s tourism growth.
The next steps include implementing the resolutions and ensuring the strategies discussed lead to tangible benefits for both nations.
“This isn’t just about boosting numbers,” said Agnes Mutiso, a conservationist from Kenya. “It’s about building a tourism sector that respects our environment, uplifts our people, and leaves a lasting legacy.”
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