Mombasa, Kenya – The Uganda Consulate-General in Mombasa, together with leading tourism stakeholders, has officially launched preparations for the 4th Uganda–Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, Exhibition, and Fam Trip. Slated for October 27–29, 2025, at Ocean Beach Resort & Spa in Malindi, Kilifi County, the event will spotlight the power of youth, innovation, and technology in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.
Speaking at the launch, Uganda’s Consul General in Mombasa, Amb. Paul Mukumbya, emphasized that the Uganda–Kenya tourism partnership is built on complementarity rather than competition. He noted that the event has grown rapidly from just 200 delegates in 2022 to an expected 750 participants this year. He further highlighted that with technology reshaping how people travel and connect, young people hold the key to driving innovation in tourism. From mobile apps and virtual reality tours to AI-driven services, youth are transforming the way tourism is experienced worldwide.
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, who graced the event alongside county executives and the Kenya Tourism Board, praised the role of youth-driven startups in sustainable travel, digital solutions, and smart hospitality concepts. He said these innovations not only enrich visitor experiences but also promote conservation, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment, making the tourism sector more sustainable for the future.
Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Business Development Manager, Dorcus Rukundo Twesigomwe, encouraged Ugandans to seize the opportunities at the Kilifi conference, noting that the number of Kenyans visiting Uganda’s national parks has doubled. She added that students and young professionals are increasingly playing a vital role in digital marketing, research, and social media engagement, tools that are helping African destinations compete globally and attract new markets.
The 2025 edition will also feature a familiarization trip to Kenya’s Coast from October 22 to 26, followed by a golf tournament at Vipingo Ridge on October 25. Uganda Airlines has confirmed it will offer special discounted rates for all registered participants. Registration has officially opened through the portal, giving stakeholders from across the region an opportunity to take part in this fast-growing initiative.
The 4th Uganda–Kenya Coast Tourism Conference promises to be more than just a networking platform. It is set to become a launchpad for young innovators, digital creators, and industry leaders determined to redefine tourism in East Africa. With a shared vision of sustainability and inclusivity, Uganda and Kenya are proving that collaboration is the future of regional tourism.