Kenya leads the charge in youth-driven tourism innovation

• Kenya has been selected to host the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge for the period 2025-2027, offering its young professionals an opportunity to showcase insights and innovation in the sector.
• Kenya’s goal is to showcase and uplift the innovators that are building tomorrow’s travel industry and can help transform tourism in Africa.
• The June 26-27, 2025, conference is poised to attract over 1,000 trailblazers in the industry, 80 thought leaders, and at least 100 senior tourism executives.

Kenya is cementing its position as a tourism powerhouse in Africa by championing innovation and empowering innovative entrepreneurs in the growing industry. As the country prepares to host the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge for the next three years, players in the industry are preparing to showcase insights and innovation-powered ideas that are driving tourism in Kenya and across Africa.

Nairobi’s opportunity to host the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge (AYTIS) for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027 comes at a critical time. The latest industry statistics show that the East African country recorded 15 per cent increase in international tourists to 2.4 million last year up from 2.09 million reported in 2023.

Designed to foster collaboration and innovation, the June 26-27, 2025, summit for this year aims to drive digital transformation and economic empowerment within Kenya’s tourism sector while offering a good opportunity to peers from other economies in Africa showcase their pioneering technologies.

According to travel industry expert Joram Mwinamo, Kenya is solidifying its position as a continental tourism leader, by betting big on its immense potential for growth, innovation, and advancements in tourism technology.

Kenya’s tourism industry earnings

The latest data from Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife shows that in 2024, the country’s tourism receipts increased by 19.8 per cent to KES452.20 billion shillings (about $3.49 billion), up from $2.92 billion realized in the previous year.

As authorities in Nairobi seek to explore new offerings within the tourism industry, the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge is a shot in the arm for policymakers as the summit organizers roll out the red carpet for over 80 speakers in the industry, at least 100 senior tourism executives drawn from the continent, and run over 28 workshops to unlock the sector’s potential during the June 26th-27th event.

“Tourism has the potential to be a leading driver of economic growth and job creation in Africa for decades to come. Our goal is to showcase and uplift the innovators that are building tomorrow’s travel industry and can transform tourism in Africa. By empowering young entrepreneurs and embracing innovation, we can reshape the narrative of African tourism” noted Håvar Bauck.

“It is crucial for African destinations to build a tourism narrative that goes beyond wildlife and beaches, highlighting the continent’s rich cultural heritage, dynamic cities, and diverse experiences. We also need to reach beyond traditional tourism source markets and segments to attract a new generation of global travelers and position this continent as the world’s fastest-growing tourism region.  AYTIS is the forum that brings together the innovators who will make that happen,” added Håvar Bauck in October 2024 while announcing Nairobi as the host of the next three summits.

The Africa Youth in Tourism summit will be hosted by Tourism Events Advisory and Management Services Africa (TEAMS Africa) a joint venture between travel industry experts Barry Clemens, Joram Mwinamo and Håvar Bauck.

 Why attend the summit?

This year’s summit in Nairobi isn’t just another industry event—it’s a launchpad for dreams, connections, and insights for stakeholders in Africa’s tourism business. The conference is set to attract over 1,000 trailblazers in the industry, over 80 thought leaders, and at least 100 senior tourism executives, all sharing ideas, shaping policies, and building the future of travel in Africa.

If you’re an entrepreneur, an investor, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone with a passion for transforming Africa’s tourism industry, this is why you need to attend:

Seize business oopportunities across Africa

At the moment, Africa’s tourism sector is evolving, promising to offer more than just safaris and scenic landscapes—it’s a billion-dollar industry ripe for innovation. This summit will offer players, new and the established alike, the chance to break into exclusive markets, secure funding, and explore opportunities tailored for youth, start-ups, and MSMEs.

Gain fresh insights about the industry

From disruptive technology to post-COVID tourism strategies, the workshops are tailored to equip participants with cutting-edge insights into financing, market access, and the digital transformation of Africa’s travel industry.

“From technology startups to local artisans, agri-businesses, and environmental conservation initiatives, tourism creates endless opportunities for African entrepreneurs to thrive. It is essential we support and nurture the next generation, whose ideas will propel this industry into new and exciting directions,” travel industry expert Barry Clemens notes.

Network with the best in the industry

The June summit promises to offer stakeholders the chance to engage with government leaders, venture builders, accelerators, and potential investors. Whether you’re looking for partnerships or mentorship, this is where game-changing connections are made.

Advance your career and skillset

Aspiring to grow in tourism tech? Need career guidance? Looking to scale your business? This summit will equip you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an evolving landscape.

Read also: Nairobi picked host city for Africa Youth Tourism Summit 2025-2027