By Waren Christopher
The county government of Kisumu has launched its Tourism Week 2025, a four-day celebration set to take place from September 24, culminating in the global observance of World Tourism Day on September 27.
The launch event on Wednesday, September 17 was held at the Kisumu Museum, the central venue for the week’s activities.
Speaking on behalf of Kisumu Governor Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Ochieng outlined the county’s vision for tourism, aligning with this year’s global theme: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
“The theme reflects Kisumu’s long-term aspirations to position tourism as a driver of economic growth, cultural pride, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion,” Dr. Ochieng said.
The Deputy Governor also noted that Kisumu as the heart of the Lake Region and a gateway to East and Central Africa, is uniquely placed to showcase its blue economy potential, eco-tourism landscapes, cultural heritage, hospitality, and creative industries.
“Kisumu Tourism Week 2025 promises a rich lineup of activities designed to educate, entertain, and inspire including cultural showcases and performances, symposia and workshops on sustainable tourism, exhibitions on digital transformation and youth innovation, community tourism experiences in cultural villages, and a vibrant gastronomy festival highlighting local delicacies such as tilapia and omena.”
A highlight of the week will be the Tourism Excellence Awards, which will recognize individuals and organizations championing sustainability, innovation, and cultural preservation.
The launch also emphasized Kisumu’s growing connectivity to major tourism destinations in Kenya and beyond.
With daily flights to Mombasa, rail links, and expanding water transport on Lake Victoria, Kisumu is strengthening its position within national and regional tourism circuits.
Owili said the county sees this connectivity as a critical asset in driving visitor numbers and integrating Kisumu into Kenya’s broader tourism landscape.
He called on the media and tourism stakeholders to use their platforms and networks to amplify the visibility of the Kisumu Tourism Week, emphasising the media’s role in shaping Kisumu’s tourism narrative, inspiring communities, and encouraging active participation from youth and women.
Stakeholders were also urged to mobilize resources, showcase innovations, and proudly display their contributions during the celebrations.
“Tourism is not just about places; it is about people. It’s not just about heritage, it’s about transformation. It’s not just about today tourism is also about tomorrow,” added the DG.
With Kisumu Tourism Week 2025, the county aims to reaffirm its status as a leader in sustainable and transformative tourism, not only in Kenya but across the East African region.
Charles Kataro, the CEO, Lake Victoria Tourism Kenya (LVTK) in a press release mentioned that they were looking forward to the celebrations.
“We reaffirm three commitments namely sustainability and conservation, community empowerment and regional collaboration as we prepare for the UN tourism week 2025,” the CEO said.