Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife plans to partner with Kisumu County Government and other private sector players to develop the region as an alternative beach and water sports hub.

This is part of the ambitious efforts to diversify the region’s appeal for both domestic and international tourists. Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa emphasised that the region’s lake ecosystem is a valuable resource that can be marketed as an alternative to the Coastal region’s beach destinations.

He noted that the unique focus on freshwater experiences—like boating, fishing, and eco-tourism—could set Kisumu apart and draw in tourists looking for something different.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to highlight the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness,’’ Ololtuaa said in Kisumu at the closing ceremony of this year’s UN World Tourism Day.

Kisumu government won the bid to host this year’s Kenya Tourism Week and United Nations World Tourism Day. The key focus of this year’s global celebrations was cultural exchange among communities as a pillar of promoting peace and unity, which is being showcased through various events in the county and the region’s heritage sites including the Kit Mikayi shrine.

Speaking during a tour of the county’s tourist attractions including Ndere Island and Kit Mikayi, Ololtuaa said focusing on beach and water sports will enable the lakeside city to attract a wider audience and showcase its unique natural beauty.

He added that this would be a great step towards enhancing the local economy and promoting sustainable tourism practices

“Developing Kisumu as a beach and water sports hub could really enhance its appeal to tourists. Partnering with the local government and private sector will help create a vibrant tourism ecosystem,’’ he told the tourism stakeholders.

“This will also provide new opportunities for local businesses and promote sustainable tourism in the area. Looking forward to seeing how this unfold,’’ Ololtuaa added.