Uganda and Kenya have signed three agreements aimed at expanding tourism, cross-border trade and investment, as the East African neighbours seek to turn stronger regional ties into commercial opportunities. The deals bring together private-sector organisations from both countries and set a framework for cooperation among tour operators, travel agents and business groups.

The memorandums of understanding were signed Oct. 26 during the fifth Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism and Innovation Summit at Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa. The two-day meeting, convened by Uganda’s Consulate General in Mombasa, is focused on removing policy barriers, expanding digital tourism and improving cross-border mobility.

Three deals target growth

The Association of Uganda Tour Operators and the Kenya Association of Tour Operators signed an agreement to promote sustainable tourism and closer regional cooperation. The Uganda Association of Travel Agents and the Kenya Association of Travel Agents also agreed to implement the Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Collaboration, covering innovation, investment, youth participation and regional integration.

The third agreement links the Private Sector Foundation Uganda with the Mombasa chapter of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It establishes a framework for trade, investment and private-sector cooperation, reflecting efforts to give businesses a more direct role in strengthening economic ties between the neighbouring countries.

Organisers have positioned the agreements as a shift from tourism promotion toward practical implementation, with measurable targets. They aim to establish at least two digital tourism prototypes ready for commercial backing and create 10 or more business-to-business connections between Ugandan and Kenyan coastal operators, with progress tracked over three months.

Visitor numbers drive cooperation

Tourism flows between the countries provide a commercial case for deeper cooperation. Uganda Tourism Board figures show that Kenyan visitors to Uganda increased to 519,041 in 2025, from 466,902 in 2024. Kenya recorded 234,556 arrivals from Uganda last year and is targeting 300,000 Ugandan visitors in 2026.

Uganda’s Consul General in Mombasa, Ambassador Herbert Kiguli, said the countries were seeking to market their attractions as a combined destination rather than compete for visitors. The “Beach to Bush, Bush to Beach” concept connects Kenya’s coastline with Uganda’s wildlife, natural attractions and cultural heritage to encourage complementary travel itineraries.

Policy barriers in focus

The summit is also expected to review Article 104 of the East African Community Treaty, which addresses the free movement of people, labour and services. The review is intended to identify obstacles to cross-border travel, while government representatives are expected to sign a joint declaration for submission to the EAC Secretariat.

Organisers plan to issue a communiqué outlining institutional commitments and deadlines within two weeks. The commitments are expected to be reviewed at the 2027 summit, giving participating organisations a timetable against which to assess progress on tourism cooperation, business links and policy changes.

Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, representing the Permanent Secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the government would continue supporting tourism stakeholders. He said trade barriers were being addressed through the Uganda-Kenya Joint Permanent Commission and called for practical solutions with clear deadlines.

Tourism anchors Uganda’s growth plan

Susan Nakawuki Nsambu, Uganda’s minister of state for tourism, wildlife and antiquities, said the partnerships needed to produce lasting business relationships. She urged organisers of familiarisation trips to include ministry officials to improve policy coordination and strengthen links between tourism promotion and government decision-making.

Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, Uganda’s first deputy prime minister and minister for East African Community affairs, called for formal cooperation frameworks, business-friendly policies, better transport infrastructure and stronger visitor safety. She said tourism partnerships should support local communities, protect natural resources and create sustainable economic opportunities.

Uganda is counting on tourism alongside agriculture, minerals, and science, technology and innovation under its Ten-Fold Growth Strategy, which aims to expand the economy from about $50 billion to $500 billion by 2040.

The summit follows a six-day familiarisation tour of Kenya’s coast by more than 70 Ugandan tour operators, travel agents, hoteliers and tourism board officials. The countries are also looking to capitalize on the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania will co-host, to attract visitors and increase regional tourism spending.