Kisumu to be positioned as alternative beach and watersports destination in Kenya

Kisumu residents take part in a boat racing event at Lake Victoria. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Kisumu is set to become a key alternative beach and watersports hub, as the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife partners with the Kisumu County Government and private sector stakeholders to boost tourism in the region.

Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa highlighted the immense potential of the region’s lake ecosystem as an attractive option for both domestic and international tourists, serving as an alternative to Kenya’s coastal beach destinations.

During a tour of Kisumu’s key tourist attractions, including Ndere Island and Kit Mikayi, as part of the ongoing Kenya Tourism Week celebrations, PS Ololtuaa emphasized the need to diversify the country's tourism offerings.

Tourism PS John Ololtuaa aboard the water bus headed to Ndere Island which is a key tourist attraction site in the Western Kenya region tourism circuit.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

“The Ndere Island, and by extension the other islands in Kisumu, offer unique touristic experiences. We are exploring ways to introduce more adventure activities and watersports here, similar to the thriving marine parks in Mombasa,” he stated.

This initiative aims to capitalize on Lake Victoria's scenic islets like Ndere Island, which is already gazetted as a National Park and offers popular sunset tours and overnight camping expeditions.

Tourism PS John Ololtuaa  with rangers from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) at the Ndere Island View Point.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

The introduction of watersports and other adventure activities is expected to enhance the region’s appeal, spreading tourism benefits beyond the coastal areas.

The government’s efforts align with its broader goal of achieving 3 million tourist arrivals by the end of the year.

By promoting the Western Kenya tourism circuit alongside renowned destinations like the Maasai Mara, Ololtuaa believes that improved infrastructure and accessibility will increase visitor numbers and spending across the country.

Kisumu County Deputy Governor Mathew Owili (second from left) and Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa during tour at Kit Mikayi in Kisumu.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Kisumu County’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Mathew Ochieng Owili, also encouraged both local and international tourists to explore the unique natural and cultural sites in the region.

He highlighted cultural heritage attractions like the Kit Mikayi shrine, emphasizing the significance of sites that preserve history while showcasing the region’s rich heritage.

 “I encourage visitors to explore destinations such as Ruma National Park, Lake Victoria’s boat tours, and other cultural experiences,” Dr. Owili said.

Tourism PS John Ololtuaa with visitors at  Kit Mikayi . The site holds great intrigue for travellers interested in cultural and religious tourism.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

As part of the familiarization tour, key stakeholders, including the media, were given a comprehensive view of the region’s potential. PS Ololtuaa urged tour operators to integrate Kisumu’s attractions, such as the Ndere Island and other islets, into their itineraries to offer a more diverse package for travelers.

Tourism PS John Ololtuaa and visitors disembark the water bus to Ndere Island. A water bus safari is one of the enjoyable experiences in Lake Victoria.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

This push to open up Lake Victoria is expected to position Kisumu as a premier destination in the Western circuit, boosting both domestic and international tourism.