Uasin Gishu County has showcased its growing potential as a tourism, investment and innovation destination as it hosted the national celebrations to mark World Tourism Day at the University of Eldoret.

The celebrations brought together national and county government leaders, tourism stakeholders, industry players, institutions and members of the public to highlight the contribution of tourism to economic growth, job creation, investment and sustainable development.

The event was presided over by Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, accompanied by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Tourism, Prof. Julius Bitok.

The national delegation was received by Uasin Gishu County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Investment, Industrialisation, Tourism and Cooperative Development, Dr Philip Chebunet, who delivered welcoming remarks on behalf of the County Government.

The celebrations commenced with an interdenominational service, providing an opportunity for leaders, tourism stakeholders and residents to reflect on the sector’s contribution to livelihoods, cultural exchange, investment and sustainable development.

The national event formed part of a week-long programme of activities aimed at showcasing the tourism potential of Uasin Gishu and Eldoret City, with a range of engagements focusing on sports tourism, culture, innovation and emerging opportunities within the sector.

This year’s celebrations were held under the theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” highlighting the growing role of technology and innovation in transforming the tourism industry.

CS Miano said the Government was committed to harnessing digital technology and Artificial Intelligence to transform Kenya’s tourism sector and enhance the country’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.

She noted that emerging technologies present opportunities to strengthen destination marketing, improve visitor experiences, enhance service delivery and create new employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

Miano further called on tourism stakeholders to embrace innovation while protecting and promoting Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, historical sites and natural attractions.

She emphasised the importance of collaboration among national and county governments, the private sector, institutions and local communities in developing a competitive, inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.

The celebrations also provided a platform to showcase innovative tourism experiences and attractions. A celebratory toast led by PS Bitok and a spectacular fireworks display added to the evening’s programme, while a hot-air balloon experience offered an immersive demonstration of the possibilities for developing new and innovative tourism products.

Hosting the national celebrations further positioned Eldoret City and Uasin Gishu as an emerging hub for sports tourism, culture, investment and innovation, building on the county’s diverse attractions and growing urban economy.

The event also underscored the potential of digital technology and Artificial Intelligence to complement Uasin Gishu’s tourism assets by creating new ways of marketing destinations, engaging visitors and developing innovative tourism experiences.

Also present were Chief Officer for Trade Elphas Kesio, Director of Tourism Margaret Aiyabei, Director of Investment Erastus Kerich, Director of Corporate Affairs at the City of Eldoret Leah Birgen, Director of Devolution and Administration Viola Kendagor, as well as other county officers from the Directorate of Tourism.