The Kenya Tourism Board will host the 14th edition of the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi from October 2 to 4.
Investors in Kenya’s tourism sector have been encouraged to seize the opportunities presented by the MKTE to network and explore partnerships with global buyers, in a quest to improve tourism business in the country.
Speaking at the launch of the expo, Kenya’s Permanent Secretary of Tourism, John Ololtuaa, noted that the MKTE event has been instrumental in facilitating local small and medium travel enterprises and start-ups to access international markets given that over 60% of the travel companies that exhibit at the expo can’t afford to participate in similar events abroad.
“MKTE has, over the years, created linkages and partnerships between local tourism enterprises and regional and international source markets. This has opened up new opportunities that have seen tremendous growth of local businesses in the tourism value chain. As a ministry, we recognise the immense potential that MKTE offers, especially to MSMEs in the tourism sector looking to establish themselves globally," said Ololtuaa.
5 000 delegates targeted
In 2023, MKTE hosted over 3 000 delegates from 25 countries showcasing Kenya's diverse tourism offerings to the world. The 2024 edition is aiming to attract 5 000 delegates and 160 hosted buyers, including over 100 buyers’ clubs.
MKTE also returns as a stand-alone expo after a successful joint expo last year with the East African Regional Tourism Expo which offered the EAC member states an opportunity to network and explore new tourism business opportunities.
Attracting tourism professionals from across the globe, the MKTE 2024 will link stakeholders in the tourism sector as well as celebrate the unique tourism offerings that Kenya has to offer.
In addition, it is set to be an invaluable platform for learning, business development and networking.
The theme this year will be based on sustainability as Kenya has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable tourism practices.
From eco-friendly lodges to community-based tourism projects, this year’s expo will showcase the country’s efforts in making tourism a force for good for both the people and the environment.
“Kenya is not only a beautiful destination with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, but it is also committed to ensuring that our tourism practices are sustainable and benefit local communities. MKTE 2024 will shine a light on these efforts and inspire others to follow suit,” said June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board.
Opportunity for local businesses
Apart from attracting global attention, the event will be an opportunity for local businesses to link with international ones and forge new partnerships that will not only attract investments but also assist them launch internationally.
Ololtuaa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued public-private sector engagement geared towards creating an enabling environment for tourism businesses to thrive.
“As a ministry, we keep on continuously reviewing and reforming our policies to ensure that we create a conducive environment that allows tourism businesses, especially those at grass roots level, to realise their full potential,” he added.
For her part, Chepkemei expressed optimism that MKTE 2024 will build on the successes of previous editions.
“MKTE has built its reputation over the years as a consistent and affordable platform for Kenyan travel trade, County Governments and affiliated brands in providing access to international suppliers and markets,” she said.
“This year, we are looking to increase hosted buyers from new source markets such as the Americas (Brazil and Mexico), Asia (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Australia) as well as the key source markets in Europe and Africa, in line with our destination diversification strategy which will enable us reach our target to have three million tourists visit the country by the end of the year,” concluded Chepkemei.
