4th Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism conference, exhibition launched

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Preparations are in the final stages for the 4th Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, Exhibition, and Fam Trip scheduled for October 27th to 29th, 2025, at the Ocean Beach Resort & Spa in Malindi, Kilifi County.

The three-day events will run under the theme "Leveraging Youth, Innovation & Technology for Responsive & Inclusive Tourism".

Unveiling the joint campaign to promote travel tourism in the two countries, Uganda’s Consul General in Mombasa, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, emphasised that the Uganda–Kenya Coast Tourism partnership is about complementarity rather than competition.

Uganda’s Consul General in Mombasa, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya speaking during the launch. (Courtesy photo)

"The event has been steadily growing from the initial 200 delegates in 2022 to a projected 750 tourism stakeholders later this year," he said on Tuesday.

In explaining the inspiration behind the theme, Mukumbya said that as the tourism sector evolves, innovation and technology have emerged as key elements in shaping the future of tourism.

From developing mobile apps for seamless bookings, to designing virtual reality travel experiences, to using AI and data analytics for personalised customer service, the youth are introducing dynamic innovations that enhance efficiency, sustainability and customer satisfaction in the industry, he stated, according to a release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to Mukumbya, youth with fresh ideas and tech-savviness have important roles to play both as travellers and service providers in the tourism industry as tour operators, travel agents and hoteliers. They are therefore uniquely positioned to drive innovation in both tourism and hospitality. 

"This group possess a natural affinity for emerging technologies and is often at the forefront of creating and adapting to new technology solutions that transform the way tourism and hospitality services are delivered," he added.

Expressing support for Youth innovations, the Governor of Kilifi County, Gideon Mung'aro, said their creativity and entrepreneurial mindset have also led to the rise of tech-enabled startups in travel, sustainable tourism initiatives, and smart hospitality concepts.

Through the use of digital tools, data-driven solutions and creative entrepreneurship, youth are contributing to a more responsive, inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.

“These innovations not only improve the visitor experience but also contribute to environmental conservation, cultural preservation and economic empowerment,” he said.

The Business Development Manager, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Ms. Dorcus Rukundo Twesigomwe, encouraged youth participation, saying that with “young professionals and students are increasingly involved in research, digital marketing strategies and social media engagement, help destinations and businesses to reach global audiences in real-time and remain relevant in a competitive market.

She encouraged Ugandans to attend the Conference in Kilifi, observing that the number of Kenyans visiting Ugandan National Parks has doubled, and there are more opportunities to be had by young people from the vibrant travel industry in Kenya.

The stakeholders also commissioning the registration portal for the conference. (Courtesy photo)

The conference and related activities will leverage the achievements of the previous years and the emerging issues in the partnership. Uganda Airlines will offer special rates for registered participants.

At the launch, the stakeholders also commissioned the registration portal for the conference. Delegates at the launch included teams from the Kenya Tourism Board, Uganda Airlines, tour agents and Kilifi county executives.

4th Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism conference

From October 27th to 29th, the conference and related activities will build upon the achievements of previous years while addressing emerging issues within the partnership.

From October 22nd to 26th, Ugandan tourism stakeholders will participate in a familiarisation trip to the Kenyan coast.

Additionally, a golf tournament is scheduled to take place at Vipingo Ridge on October 25th.