Kenya-Uganda’s cross-border tourism will boom global travel

Friday, April 19, 2024

Kenya and Uganda are jointly enhancing their tourism efforts through a new marketing strategy aimed at increasing cross-border tourism, a sector with significant potential for growth. This will eventually help boost global travel. This collaborative initiative includes a variety of cultural and culinary festivals designed to draw both local and international visitors.

Launching the Uganda Festival

The campaign began with a four-day culinary and cultural festival hosted by Uganda’s consulate in Mombasa, spanning locations like Kwale, Kilifi, and Mombasa. The inaugural event of the Uganda Festival was held at Diani Beach Hotel in Kwale, attracting over 500 attendees, including local and international tourists. This festival is part of Uganda’s effort to showcase its unique cultural offerings and entice more Kenyans and international visitors. Hence contributing to a boom in international travel.

Visitor Exchange and Market Importance

Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, the Uganda Consul General in Mombasa, highlighted the robust exchange of tourists between the two countries, noting significant visitor numbers. Last year, Kenya welcomed approximately 200,000 visitors from Uganda, while around 500,000 Kenyans visited Uganda for both tourism and business purposes. He pointed out that Kenya is the top source market for Uganda’s tourism sector, while Uganda ranks as the second highest source of visitors to Kenya.

Upcoming Events and Accessibility

The festival’s future events are set to take place at various notable locations including Ocean Beach in Malindi, Vipingo Ridge in Kilifi, and Fort Jesus in Mombasa. Special activities like a cultural night and the inaugural Uganda-Kilifi Open Golf Tournament are also part of the festival’s agenda. Ambassador Mukumbya emphasized the ease of travel between Kenya and Uganda, noting that Kenyans can visit Uganda without a visa or passport, needing only their national identity card. This ease of access is a key selling point in promoting regional tourism.

Local Collaboration and Economic Opportunities

During the event in Kwale, Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo expressed the local government’s commitment to collaborating with Uganda to enhance tourism on the Kenya coast. He also invited investments in various sectors including tourism, real estate, agriculture, and mining, highlighting the socio-economic benefits of cultural exchange.

Cultural Significance and Social Impact

The festival not only promotes tourism but also cultural exchange, with performances by Uganda’s Ndere Troupe and entertainment from comedian Anne Kansiime. These cultural showcases play a crucial role in enriching the visitor experience and fostering socio-economic development through cultural tourism.

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