Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya has been selected to host the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge (AYTIS) from 2025 to 2027. This prestigious event aims to empower young entrepreneurs in the tourism sector and solidify Kenya’s position as a leading tourism destination.
The decision follows the successful 2024 summit in Windhoek, Namibia, which attracted over 500 delegates from across Africa. The summit showcased the continent’s tourism potential and fostered collaboration among entrepreneurs, government officials, and industry leaders.
Tourism Events Advisory and Management Services Africa (TEAMS Africa), co-founded by industry experts Barry Clemens and Håvar Bauck, will organize the Nairobi summits. The specific dates and venue for the 2025 event will be announced later this month.
Håvar Bauck emphasized the importance of tourism as an economic driver in Africa and highlighted the need to support young innovators shaping the future of the industry. “By empowering young entrepreneurs and embracing innovation, we can transform African tourism,” he said.
Barry Clemens expressed pride in bringing AYTIS to Kenya, noting the country’s reputation for youth, innovation, and entrepreneurship in tourism. He stressed that tourism is a catalyst for transformation across various industries, from technology to local crafts.
Kwakye Donkor, leader of Africa Tourism Partners, shared his enthusiasm for partnering with TEAMS Africa to host AYTIS in Nairobi. He emphasized the city’s innovative spirit and the potential to unlock the potential of young African entrepreneurs.
Africa Tourism Partners, led by Donkor, will continue to convene the summit, aiming to attract 800 participants in 2025. The organization plans to expand the summit’s reach and offer more opportunities for networking and collaboration.
AYTIS has a history of successful events in Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, and Ghana, supported by governments and partnered with the UN Tourism and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat.
