THE 4TH
UGANDA - KENYA COAST
TOURISM CONFERENCE
& EXHIBITION
Leveraging youth, innovation and technology for responsive and inclusive tourism.
Theme:
Leveraging youth, innovation and technology for responsive and inclusive tourism.
Background
Since 2022, the Consulate General of Uganda in Mombasa, working with key tourism stakeholders in Uganda and the Kenya Coast, has been promoting cooperation and complementarily in destination marketing between Uganda and Kenya through the Uganda - Kenya Coast partnership. The main aim of the partnership is to increase the number of tourists visiting Uganda and Kenya respectively through cross- selling of the tourism products, given that the two destinations have different and unique products that can complement rather than compete with one another. The partnership is also intended to promote growth of regional tourism.
Against the above background, the Consulate General and key tourism stakeholders in Uganda and Kenya are organizing the 4th Uganda- Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, Exhibition and Fam trip. The Conference and Exhibition will be held on 27th – 28th October 2025 at the Ocean Beach Resort & Spa, Malindi, Kilifi County. The conference will be preceded by a Fam trip to the Kenya Coast by Ugandan tourism stakeholders from 22nd – 26th October, and a golf tournament that will be held at Vipingo Ridge on 25th October 2025. The conference and related activities will leverage on the achievements of the previous years and the emerging issues in the partnership.
Rationale
As the tourism sector evolves, innovation and technology have emerged as key elements in shaping the future of tourism. Young people, with fresh ideas and tech-savviness, have important roles to play both as travelers and service providers in the tourism industry as tour operators, travel agents and hoteliers. They are, therefore, uniquely positioned to drive innovation in both tourism and hospitality. Through the use of digital tools, data-driven solutions and creative entrepreneurship, youth are contributing to a more responsive, inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.
Young people possess a natural affinity for emerging technologies and are often at the forefront of creating and adapting to new technology solutions that transform the way tourism and hospitality services are delivered. From developing mobile apps for seamless bookings, to designing virtual reality travel experiences, to using AI and data analytics for personalized customer service, the youth are introducing dynamic innovations that enhance efficiency, sustainability and customer satisfaction in the industry. Their creativity and entrepreneurial mindset have also led to the rise of tech-enabled startups in travel, sustainable tourism initiatives, and smart hospitality concepts. These innovations not only improve the visitor experience but also contribute to environmental conservation, cultural preservation and economic empowerment.
Moreover, young professionals and students are increasingly involved in research, digital marketing strategies and social media engagement, helping destinations and businesses reach global audiences in real-time and stay relevant in a competitive market.
The 4th Uganda- Kenya Coast Tourism Conference and Exhibition will, therefore, provide an opportunity to discuss how to build synergies around innovation and technology, with a focus on the tech-based tourism.
With regards to fam trips, although a number of stakeholders have participated in previous fam trips, there are still many others who have not, and do not have firsthand experience of the products in the two destinations. This is because fam trips are very expensive to organize, and only a very limited number can be accommodated in a single trip. This makes it necessary to continue organizing fam trips so that as many stakeholders as possible are empowered to sell destinations from a point of knowledge.
On the other hand, the golf tournaments provide an opportunity for high end travelers to travel to the two destinations. It is important to continue organizing these tournaments to continue growing the numbers. Ultimately the intention is to onboard other sports activities.
Why Choose Us
Why Choose Us
The overall objective of the 4th Uganda- Kenya will be to have a conversation on how stakeholders in the tourism industry can tap into the emerging innovations and technology to drive tourism growth.
The specific objectives are:
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To discuss and create awareness about innovations and technological solutions that contribute to sustainable (responsive) tourism practices.
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To develop and consolidate partnerships anchored on responsive and inclusive technological innovations.
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To leverage technology in promotion of smart investments in tourism, connectivity and accessibility.
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To provide a platform for the youth to interface with key industry players in the tourism sector.
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Build a mutually beneficial relationship for young tourism content creators and stakeholders across the sector.
Topics for discussion
Keynote Address (on the theme).
Tech based Tourism.
Harnessing Culture, Adventure, Sports and Heritage (CASH) Tourism.
Smart Destinations.
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Secure BoothPicture of Success
Awareness about innovations and technological solutions that contribute to sustainable tourism practices created.
Partnerships anchored on responsive and inclusive technological innovations developed and consolidated.
Smart investments in tourism, connectivity and accessibility attracted and developed.
Platform for the youth to interface with key industry players in the tourism sector provided.
Mutually beneficial relationship for young tourism content creators and stakeholders across the sector built.
The event Structure and Methodology
The Conference will be interactive, with inspiring industry leaders in technology and innovation, presentations and B2B which will provide a platform for networking, learning and sharing, equip the key tourism players.
There will be an exhibition by tourism stakeholders from Uganda and the Kenya Coast.
The conference will also include visits to tourism sites in Kenya.
The familiarization trip to Uganda will be planned and organized by the Uganda Consulate General in Mombasa, in conjunction with UTB, AUTO, PSFU, UHOA and key players in the tourism sector in Uganda.
Key Themes
Expected Target Participants
Public Sector
Contact Us
Get in touch with us
Location
OCEAN BEACH RESORT AND SPA, MALINDI
info@thetourismconference.org
Date
27TH- 28TH OCTOBER 2025
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