Kampala, Uganda | Independence | Kenya is stepping up efforts to attract more tourists by improving travel infrastructure and strengthening regional cooperation, officials said at Uganda's Africa Tourism Expo (POATE).
Speaking at the Regional Tourism Fair, Kenya's Cabinet Secretary of Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, said the government is focusing on strengthening the connectivity of the air and land in East Africa, while simplifying visa procedures to promote tourism growth.
“By increasing connectivity between Kenya and East African neighbors, improving infrastructure and simplifying the visa process, not only increasing the number of visitors, but enriching the travel experience,” Miano said.
Currently, Kenya is expanding its airport capacity, road and rail networks and high-speed internet access to open remote destinations and appealing to a new generation of digitally savvy travelers.
Tourism and trade have been lifted from these developments. In 2024, Africa accounted for the arrival of Kenya's 975,883 tourists. This represents 40.8% of international visitors. Uganda led the African sauce market at 31.7%, followed by Tanzania (28.5%), Somalia (11.4%) and Rwanda (9.2%).
The Kenyan government is working closely with the private sector to improve infrastructure and streamline immigration services. This is what Miano says is “the key to increasing Kenya's global tourism competitiveness.”
Kenya is aiming to increase the arrival of 27% to 300,000 tourists from Uganda by the end of 2025, authorities said. Charming over 260 exhibitors, 70 international buyers and 5,000 trade visitors, Poate served as an important platform for Kenya to showcase its tourist products.
Felix Mwangangi, country manager for Kenya Airlines Uganda, said the domestic airline is running a joint marketing campaign with the Kenya Tourism Authority and tour operators to boost local travel.
The airline currently operates four flights per week between Kenya and Uganda, ready to adjust capacity based on demand.
“There is growing interest from Ugandan travelers. We expect this momentum to continue ahead of the magical Kenya travel exposition in Nairobi from October 1st to 3rd,” Mwangangi said.
On Kenya's coast, Kilifi County has emerged as a favourable destination for Ugandan tourists seeking beach vacations, golf tourism, weddings and honeymoons, said Adrian Baya, Chief Tourism Officer in Kilifi County.
Vipingo Ridge, home to Africa's only PGA-certified golf course, is also in a major draw. Kilifi's tourism strategies include linking local and Ugandan tour operators to expand marketing reach and enhance collaboration.
