DG Kanani Leads Kitui in Marking World Tourism Day


Kitui Charts a Digital Future for Tourism at Mutitu Hill Forest

As the world marked World Tourism Day 2026, Kitui County showcased the transformative power of pairing nature with technology during celebrations held at the scenic Mutitu Hill Forest.


The event, led by Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani, highlighted the county's commitment to leveraging digital innovation to unlock the full potential of its tourism sector.


Speaking to a gathered crowd of stakeholders, partners, and community members, Deputy Governor Kanani emphasized that this year's theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” is a call to action.


 “We must embrace digital marketing, social media, digital mapping... and artificial intelligence to showcase the beauty and experiences available in Kitui to both domestic and international visitors,” he stated.



He noted that technology is not just about visibility but also about improving visitor experiences and managing tourism resources more effectively.


 The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the County Government's dedication to ensuring that tourism development does not compromise the ecological integrity of the forest, promising continued support for conservation, tree planting, and responsible management.


Central to the celebration was the role of the local community. 

“The success of tourism development at Mutitu Hill Forest will depend greatly on the active participation of the local community,” Kanani said, commending the Mutitu Site Support Group for their stewardship. Mutitu Hill Forest is a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) and also a classified Important Bird Area (IBA).


Mr. Kanani envisioned a future where locals are not just spectators but active beneficiaries, creating opportunities for youth to become tour guides and entrepreneurs, and for women to participate in hospitality and creative enterprises.


This vision was powerfully reinforced by the Chief Conservator of Mutitu Hill Forest, who delivered a direct and passionate message. 


“This is your forest,” he declared. “You must protect it as your own shamba.” He pointed to the Participatory Forest Management Plan as a crucial tool for this partnership, which allows community members to engage in rehabilitation efforts and collect permitted firewood.


Deputy Governor Kanani also placed the forest within a broader strategy, referencing the recently launched Kitui Tourism Circuit. Mutitu Hill Forest lies under the Kitui Central Circuit, which connects it to attractions like Nzambani Rock and Kalundu Eco Park, creating a richer, more compelling experience for visitors.


In his closing call to action, the Deputy Governor urged a collective shift from ideas to reality. 


“Let us conserve our natural resources, embrace digital innovation, empower our communities, support local tourism enterprises and strengthen partnerships,” he urged. “Let us ensure that tourism becomes a source of employment, investment, conservation and improved livelihoods for the people of Kitui, developing it responsibly so that its benefits are widely shared for generations to come.”





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