Kenya will host the 3rd edition of the East Africa Regional Tourism Expo (EARTE) from November 20th to 22nd, 2023 as the country seeks to boost regional tourism.

Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Center ( KICC) while unveiling, Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza at the same time announced that the event will be held alongside the annual Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE).

Malonza said the tourism fairs will enhance Kenya’s and the region’s visibility, forge partnerships, and enhance investments in the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors.

 “This year, we shall be integrating the Magical Kenya Tourism Expo (MKTE) and the East African Regional Tourism Expo (EARTE) seamlessly, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to unity and a shared vision within the East African Community,” she said.

Further, she said that the tourism sector continues to play a key role in enabling the regional economies.

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 “By creating opportunities towards building inclusive growth and employment, EARTE and MKTE 2023 will allow us to keep industry stakeholders informed on progresses made towards industry growth and the new strategies, programs, and partnerships available in the market.” Said the CS.

She emphasized that expos form an integral part of the tourism sector and that countries must collaborate with their respective regional partners to strengthen tourism.

On his part, East Africa Community, Principal Secretary Abdi Dubat noted that the tourism sector contributes an average of 9.5 percent of the East Africa region’s GDP and an average 7.1 percent of employment opportunities in the region, translating to over four million jobs.

The East Africa Regional Tourism Expo (EARTE), is an annual regional travel fair showcasing the region’s diverse tourism offering to consumers and trade, hosted by the East African Community partner states on a rotational basis.

The inaugural Regional Tourism Expo was hosted by the United Republic of Tanzania (URT) in October 2021 in Arusha, while the Republic of Burundi hosted the second edition in September 2022 in Bujumbura.

The Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) is Kenya’s annual flagship travel trade fair that brings together tourism stakeholders, partners, and media from some of Kenya’s key source markets in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

The two expos have been combined into one event, creating more value and enhancing the show's engagement level for all the participants.