In a bid to enhance tourism ties, Kenya and Uganda are ramping up collaborative efforts as they prepare for the third Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, scheduled for November 20-21 at the Speke Resort and Convention Center in Kampala. This follows two successful conferences in Mombasa and Diani.

The Ugandan government launched an ambitious campaign aimed at attracting at least 500 Kenyan tourism stakeholders to the event. Uganda’s Consul General at the Kenyan Coast, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, encouraged participation during the campaign’s launch in Mombasa. “This year’s venue reflects how seriously we in Uganda take the Kenyan market,” Mukumbya stated, urging stakeholders to register as the portal has already seen over 300 sign-ups.

The conference aims to build upon past successes in promoting cross-border tourism and trade. “The confidence levels among stakeholders have risen, enabling Kenyan and Ugandan operators to develop and exchange tourism packages effectively,” said Dr. Sam Ikwaye, Executive Director of the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC).

Highlighting the unique attractions of Taita Taveta County, Gertrude Shuwe, Tourism County Executive Committee member, invited Ugandan tourists to explore beyond the typical destinations, noting, “We have so much more to offer beyond the beaches.”

Additionally, the Uganda Consulate in Mombasa is organizing a trade and investment mission early next year to further strengthen economic ties between the two nations. With over 490,000 Kenyans visiting Uganda in 2023, there is significant potential for growth through collaboration.