CORDIO, in collaboration with Sustainable Travel and Tourism Africa (STTA), convened one of the first and largest Tourism Sector Stakeholder Forums (TSSF) for Kwale County at PrideInn Diani. The inclusive gathering hold on November 19th, brought together a wide cross-section of tourism stakeholders, including private-sector actors, Beach Management Units, community beach and boat operators, hotel and accommodation providers, tour and experience operators, NGOs and conservation organisations, state agencies, county tourism officials, researchers, academic institutions, digital marketing experts, waste management companies, and sustainable tourism advocates.

A collaborative space for reflection and shared learning

Throughout the forum, participants engaged in open and constructive dialogue to assess the current state of collaboration within Kwale’s tourism sector. Interactive discussions, presentations, and group sessions highlighted both the strengths already present within the destination and the persistent challenges that limit coordinated action. A key theme emerging from the exchanges was the need for shared sustainability standards and a more integrated approach to destination stewardship.

Co-designing a unified vision for blue tourism

Looking ahead, the forum marked the beginning of a co-design process to outline practical, coordinated actions for the sector. This process aims to shape a durable and well-structured Kwale Blue Tourism Stakeholder Forum—a long-term platform intended to strengthen collaboration, foster a shared vision, and enhance strategic alignment among tourism actors.

Once established, this platform will support Kwale County in advancing its competitiveness as a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient blue tourism destination, while ensuring that local communities benefit equitably from tourism growth.