Kitui County on Sunday joined the rest of the world in marking World Tourism Day, with celebrations held at Mutitu Hills Important Bird Area (IBA) in Mutito.
The event was officiated by Kitui Deputy Governor H.E. Wambua Kanani, bringing together stakeholders from the county government, Kenya Forest Service, Nature Kenya and the Mutitu Site Support Group.
This year’s celebrations focused on the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” highlighting the growing role of technology and innovation in promoting tourism.
The event also placed a spotlight on Mutitu Hills and its rich birdlife, as stakeholders explored opportunities to promote conservation, eco-tourism and local community participation.
The celebrations carried the message “Tembea Kitui – No Vaa,” encouraging visitors to discover Kitui’s tourism and natural heritage.
The celebrations brought together tourism, conservation and community stakeholders, with the County Government of Kitui, Nature Kenya, Kenya Forest Service and Mutitu Site Support Group working together to showcase the tourism potential of the area.
Mutitu Hills, designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA), was placed at the centre of the celebrations because of its unique natural environment and diverse birdlife. The event highlighted the importance of protecting the hills while creating opportunities for communities living around the site to benefit from tourism and conservation.
The World Tourism Day celebrations also provided an opportunity to promote Kitui as a tourism destination, with stakeholders calling for greater use of digital platforms and emerging technologies to market local attractions. The “Tembea Kitui – No Vaa” message encouraged residents and visitors to explore the county’s scenic landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage.
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