Kisumu unveils new push to grow tourism through women and AI
Kisumu has unveiled a new two-year partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to empower women and expand their participation in the tourism industry as the county seeks to position itself as a leading destination in East Africa. Deputy Governor Mathews Owili said the partnership would strengthen women’s skills, entrepreneurship and participation in […]
Kisumu, Kenya, has launched a two-year initiative with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to boost women's involvement in the local tourism industry. Deputy Governor Mathews Owili announced the partnership during the Kisumu Tourism Fiesta, a week-long event showcasing the county's cultural heritage and tourism potential.
The collaboration aims to empower women with the skills and opportunities needed to contribute meaningfully to the tourism value chain, entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development.
As part of its efforts to modernize the tourism sector, Kisumu is also leveraging digital technology and artificial intelligence. This year's festival aligns with the global theme of utilizing digital platforms and AI to reshape the tourism industry. The county has partnered with Alliance Française to introduce university students studying hospitality management to experts skilled in digital tools, enabling them to not only seek employment but also create job opportunities for themselves.
The week-long festival includes a youth symposium, media familiarization tour, street carnival, and the second edition of the Kisumu City Drift Takeover. These activities are designed to highlight Kisumu's unique culture and tourism attractions for both local and international visitors. Deputy Governor Owili emphasized the county's commitment to positioning tourism as a strategic pillar of its economic development, highlighting past growth in the hospitality industry and the city's hosting of various conferences, forums, sporting events, and cultural festivals.
Owili expressed optimism about the potential of Lake Victoria, cultural heritage, sports, conferences, and creative arts in developing a broader tourism economy. Key attractions being promoted include Kit Mikayi, Dunga Wetlands, Ndere Island National Park, and the culinary and recreational experiences offered by Lake Victoria. The county is also working to strengthen the creative economy by establishing a music recording and production studio to support local musicians, artists, and content creators.
Kisumu's long-term vision for the Tourism Fiesta is to transform it into one of East Africa's major tourism and cultural festivals, bringing together heritage, innovation, commerce, and creativity. The festival, which runs through Saturday, is expected to attract residents, visitors, investors, and other tourism stakeholders to the region.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
