Over 45 stakeholders from Kwale County’s tourism sector convened last week at PrideInn Diani for the 2nd Kwale County Tourism Sector Stakeholders’ Forum, held under the Diani-Shimoni pilot of the Blue Tourism Initiative.

Facilitated by Sustainable Tourism Expert Judy Kepher-Gona, the workshop focused on validating a proposed model for tourism sector coordination and governance in Kwale County. It follows the first Kwale County Tourism Sector Stakeholders Forum held in November 2025, where participants identified the need for a structured, inclusive platform to strengthen coordination across the tourism sector. The stakeholders comprised representatives from county and national government agencies, hotels and tourism operators, Beach Management Units (BMUs) and boat operators, community tourism enterprises, conservation organizations, academic and training institutions, business associations, creatives, and development partners.

The forum was officially opened by County Director of Tourism Paul Musila, who emphasized the importance of registration, licensing, and stronger cooperation among tourism operators to maintain standards and strengthen the sector.

Through breakout discussions and plenary sessions, participants reviewed and refined the model, leading to the adoption of a joint resolution. Key outcomes included:
– Endorsement of the Kwale County Tourism Council as a shared platform for the sector
–  Agreement on an inclusive governance structure representing diverse tourism stakeholders
– Commitment to establish a Blue Tourism Fund to support joint marketing, MSME competitiveness, and sustainability initiatives
– Plans to launch a Learning Hub for training and knowledge exchange
–  Initial steps to operationalize a working group and strengthen partnerships

The final resolution will be shared with the Kwale County Executive Committee for further input as the process moves toward formalization.

The forum was supported by CORDIO East Africa through the Blue Tourism Initiative, which works with coastal destinations to strengthen sustainable tourism governance and community participation.