The County Government of Uasin Gishu has officially kicked off this year’s UN World Tourism Week, with County Secretary Philip Melly flagging off a series of activities leading to the World Tourism Day celebrations on September 27.

The celebrations, being held from September 23 to 27 at the University of Eldoret, have brought together the State Department for Tourism, county government officials and key stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sector.

The event is being officiated by Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, who is leading the national celebrations alongside other government officials and tourism stakeholders.

The first day of the celebrations was marked by a tree-planting exercise, highlighting the important connection between tourism, environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The exercise also complements the environmental conservation and tree-growing agenda championed by His Excellency President William Ruto, demonstrating the sector’s commitment to ensuring that tourism development goes hand in hand with environmental sustainability.

The celebrations will showcase Uasin Gishu and the wider North Rift’s tourism potential, with activities focusing on sports tourism, culture and heritage, agri-tourism, nature and landscapes, gastronomy, conservation and digital innovation.

This year’s theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” places technology and innovation at the centre of discussions on the future of tourism.

The week-long programme will culminate in the World Tourism Day celebrations on September 27, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, showcase tourism products and highlight investment opportunities in Uasin Gishu and the wider North Rift region.