The Uganda Consulate in Mombasa, in collaboration with key tourism stakeholders from Uganda and Kenya, has officially launched preparations for the 4th Uganda–Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, Exhibition, and Familiarization (Fam) Trip. Scheduled for October 27–29, 2025, at the Ocean Beach Resort & Spa in Malindi, Kilifi County, the event will operate under the theme “Leveraging Youth, Innovation & Technology for Responsive & Inclusive Tourism.”
The launch event was attended by Kilifi County Governor H.E. Gideon Mung’aro, county executives, representatives from the Kenya Tourism Board, Uganda Airlines, tour agents, and Ugandan Brand Ambassador Akothee, among others.
In his address, Uganda’s Consul General in Mombasa, Amb. Paul Mukumbya, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the Uganda–Kenya tourism partnership, emphasizing complementarity over competition. He noted the event’s remarkable growth, from 200 delegates in 2022 to an anticipated 750 tourism stakeholders in 2025.
Amb. Mukumbya underscored the pivotal role of youth, innovation, and technology in shaping the future of tourism. “Young people, with their fresh ideas and tech-savviness, are uniquely positioned to drive innovation in tourism and hospitality,” he said. He highlighted how young entrepreneurs are leveraging technologies such as mobile apps for seamless bookings, virtual reality travel experiences, and AI-driven data analytics to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction in the industry.
Echoing this sentiment, Governor Mung’aro praised the creativity and entrepreneurial mindset of the youth, noting their contributions to tech-enabled startups, sustainable tourism initiatives, and smart hospitality solutions. “Through digital tools and creative entrepreneurship, young people are fostering a more responsive, inclusive, and sustainable tourism sector,” he said. He added that these innovations not only enhance visitor experiences but also promote environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment.
The 4th Uganda–Kenya Coast Tourism Conference aims to build on the success of previous editions, fostering stronger regional collaboration and showcasing innovative solutions to advance the tourism industry. The event will bring together stakeholders to explore how youth-driven innovation and technology can create a more inclusive and sustainable tourism ecosystem.
