Eldoret, Kenya will be the host of the 2026 UN Tourism Week, an event that aims to showcase the country's efforts to diversify its tourism industry through digital technology and artificial intelligence. The week-long event, scheduled to take place from September 21 to 27, will be held at the University of Eldoret. This event brings together government officials, tourism investors, technology companies, innovators, scholars, conservationists, and members of the public.
The theme of this year's UN Tourism Week, "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism," highlights the importance of emerging technologies in destination marketing, customer engagement, business development, and tourism management. According to Tourism Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, the program will provide opportunities for participants to explore tourism attractions and experiences in Eldoret and the wider North Rift region.
The program includes training sessions on the use of digital technologies and AI for tourism stakeholders, such as micro, small, and medium enterprises, tour operators, hoteliers, tour guides, youth, and community-based tourism enterprises. Participants will learn about digital tools for content creation, destination promotion, and market intelligence. Additionally, innovators and tourism enterprises will showcase their products and technologies at exhibitions during the event.
Organizers have planned road trips and a destination caravan to tourism sites across the North Rift, allowing participants to interact with local communities and businesses and experience the region's tourism products. These activities will include cultural and sports experiences, hot-air balloon rides, and visits to entertainment venues in Eldoret. The goal is to promote the region to international visitors and demonstrate its potential as a tourism destination.
The event will also focus on environmental conservation and sustainable tourism, featuring discussions and activities such as tree-growing and clean-up exercises. The government hopes that the week will help raise the profile of the North Rift as a tourism destination while showcasing how digital innovation can create new opportunities for tourism businesses and communities.
The UN Tourism Week will bring together tourism and technology stakeholders to explore the application of emerging technologies in strengthening Kenya's tourism sector. The goal is to expand the range of destinations and experiences available to visitors, moving beyond traditional coastal and wildlife destinations. By leveraging digital technology and AI, Kenya aims to enhance its tourism industry and make it more competitive.
The event is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and tourism industry, providing a platform for stakeholders to network and collaborate. With its focus on digital technology and AI, the UN Tourism Week in Eldoret is set to be a significant event in Kenya's tourism calendar, highlighting the country's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the sector.
Key points
- The 2026 UN Tourism Week will focus on digital technology and AI to diversify Kenya's tourism industry.
- The event aims to promote the North Rift region as a tourism destination and showcase its potential.
- The program includes training sessions and exhibitions to enhance the use of digital technologies and AI in tourism.
