(Kampala) – Uganda will host the first ever Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference on November 20–21, 2024, at Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking a significant step in strengthening regional tourism ties.
The conference, themed “The Uganda-Kenya Coast Partnership: Promoting Job Creation, Inclusivity, and Sustainability,” is expected to attract over 500 tourism professionals from both nations. It aims to foster collaboration, promote inclusivity, and support joint marketing efforts to enhance regional tourism.
Kenya remains Uganda’s largest source of tourists, yet many Kenyan tourism agents have traditionally directed travelers to Rwanda for attractions like mountain gorillas. This conference presents an opportunity for Kenyan stakeholders to experience Uganda’s unique offerings, encouraging diversification of destinations within the region.
Uganda Airlines’ Entebbe-Mombasa route will be a highlight of the event, offering a convenient travel option to complement Kenya Airways’ Nairobi connections. By showcasing this route, the conference aims to simplify travel logistics and improve accessibility between the two nations.
In preparation for the conference, 70 Kenyan tourism stakeholders embarked on a familiarisation tour across Uganda. The tour included iconic sites such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, renowned for its mountain gorillas, and the Source of the Nile, a global heritage landmark.
To further strengthen ties, a golf tournament was held on November 9, fostering camaraderie and collaboration between Ugandan and Kenyan stakeholders.
Key Details of Uganda-Kenya Tourism Conference
| Date | Event | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| November 20–21, 2024 | Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference | Partnership discussions, Entebbe-Mombasa route showcase |
| Pre-Event | Familiarisation tour for Kenyan agents | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Source of the Nile |
| November 9, 2024 | Golf tournament | Strengthening collaboration between Uganda and Kenya |