Rwanda and Kenya strengthen tourism partnership

Rwanda and Kenya have launched talks to build a stronger tourism partnership aimed at increasing visitor numbers and promoting a unified East African tourism vision.

The discussions are led by the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) in collaboration with RwandAir and private sector stakeholders.

The first consultative meeting was held in Kigali last week, bringing together over 50 participants, including travel operators, hotel investors, government representatives, and tourism partners from both countries. Esther Magiti, Counselor at the Kenyan Embassy in Kigali, emphasized that the meeting reflects the strong ties between Rwanda and Kenya while creating a platform for deeper collaboration.

Both nations boast diverse attractions: Rwanda’s gorilla trekking and cultural heritage, and Kenya’s wildlife safaris and coastal tourism. They also share opportunities in MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and investment prospects that can draw visitors from across Africa and beyond.

KTB’s Regional Tourism Development Director, Alex Tunoi, noted that the initiative is part of Kenya’s strategy to boost tourist arrivals from Rwanda and the wider East African region. The partnership will focus on joint marketing, knowledge exchange, and expanding flight connectivity.

These talks follow a bilateral agreement signed on June 29, 2026, allowing Rwanda to use Kenya’s infrastructure for importing petroleum products, further strengthening economic ties between the two countries.