The two governments have been urged to address travel barriers, particularly in the realm of air transport to enhance tourism collaboration between Kenya and Uganda.
Uganda’s Consul General to Kenya, Paul Mukumbya, acknowledged positive improvements in travel policies between the nations. Mukumbya highlighted the current convenience of cross-border travel with just a national identity card, but underscored persisting challenges, notably the high cost of air travel.
Despite existing policies facilitating travel, Mukumbya emphasized the need for both governments to explore avenues for reducing taxes on air travel. He argued that treating regional travel akin to domestic flights would not only cut costs but also stimulate an increase in regional tourists.
Mukumbya urged a shift in perception, urging people to view air travel not merely as a luxury but as a necessity. This call comes in response to the initiative undertaken by Kenya Coast tourism stakeholders to collaborate with their counterparts in Uganda to enhance the tourism sector.
The partnership, initiated in 2022, aims to leverage the unique tourism offerings of both countries. During the launch program of the Uganda-Kenya tourism conference, Mukumbya highlighted the diverse attractions each nation possesses. Kenya’s coastal treasures, including beaches, Fort Jesus, and the Vasco Da Gama Pillar in Malindi, stand in contrast to Uganda’s distinct offerings such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, adventure tourism along the River Nile, and the vibrant Kampala nightlife.
Acknowledging Kenya as Uganda’s primary source market for tourists, Mukumbya emphasized the potential synergies between the nations to promote complementary tourism products. The partnership seeks to not only encourage mutual tourism but also provide international tourists with the opportunity to explore the varied offerings of both nations in a single itinerary.
Despite the positive momentum, Mukumbya stressed the importance of collaboration with the private sector. The involvement of entities like the Kenya Association of Tour Operators, the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers, the Kenya Coastal Tourism Association, and the Kenya Association of Travel Agents is deemed crucial for the success of this joint initiative.
Sam Ikwaye, Executive Officer of the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers, emphasized the strategic significance of diversifying tourism markets. He urged the governments to create a conducive business environment, addressing bilateral challenges that impede seamless trade.
Ikwaye praised Uganda and Rwanda as emerging destinations, learning from and potentially surpassing Kenya in the tourism sector. He pointed out that while Uganda invests heavily in infrastructure to enhance accessibility to tourist sites, Kenya faces challenges due to a fragmented approach within the industry.
