As the Diani–Shimoni pilot of the Blue Tourism Initiative nears completion, participants came together one last time for an intensive training dedicated to leadership and good governance.

The three-day session, led by CORDIO Researcher Geoffrey Otieno, brought together 20 representatives from Kaya Kinondo Community-Based Organization and the Chale Community Beach Operators.

The workshop focused on practical and participatory skills essential for effective community governance, including:

• Ethical and participatory decision-making
• Conflict resolution and stakeholder engagement
• Gender equity and youth inclusion in leadership
• Strategic communication and collaboration

This training forms part of a broader BlueEconomy agenda that promotes sustainable, inclusive, and resilient coastal development. It recognises that community groups are at the heart of blue tourism — as custodians of marine resources and key actors in local governance, conservation, and equitable benefit-sharing.

Next week, CORDIO East Africa will host a discussion forum bringing together stakeholders from both the public and private tourism sectors in coastal #Kenya.
The aim is to co-create a shared vision and chart a collaborative pathway for community-led blue tourism, ensuring that economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship and social equity.

Together, these efforts are shaping a more resilient, inclusive, and equitable blue future for Kenya’s coastal communities.