Kisumu based journalists are poised to benefit from a competitive grant from the department of tourism, culture and heritage as part of an initiative to further advance, Kisumu My Pride, as a brand while strategically positioning Kisumu as a tourism destination ahead of the World Tourism Day to be held from 24th to 27th of September 2025 at the Kisumu National Museum. The partnership between the scribes and the county’s department is being championed by CECM Farida Salim.

Speaking during a media breakfast and sensitization session earlier today, Farida noted the important role played by the media in ensuring visibility around and within the robust initiatives crafted and fronted by the directorate of tourism to market Kisumu city as a global destination for tourists, promising the introduction of grants for the Kisumu based scribes.

“We have walked this journey as partners and we take cognisant, your immense contribution in building our brand, Kisumu My Pride, and as a department, we are in the process of introducing grants whose details I so wish to hold for now,” she said.

Kisumu My Pride, is an official marketing campaign and brand under which Kisumu county promotes its tourism, trade, and investment initiatives, aiming to raise its profile as a hub for innovation and economic growth.

The media breakfast was officiated by the deputy governor, Matthews Owili, to set the pace and tempo ahead of the World Tourism Week to be held at the Kisumu National Museum.

While acknowledging the importance of the partnership, Owilli assured residents and visitors of the state of security in the county and expressed confidence in the vibrance of the oncoming World Tourism Day.

“Todays launch is therefore about you, the media, our partners and our stakeholders. Your voice, your platforms and your networks will carry Kisumu story far and wide,” he said.

“We count on your support to amplify the visibility of Kisumu Tourism Week to showcase the opportunities and innovations coming out of Kisumu and to inspire communities, youth and women to take part and participate in tourism,” he added.

Owilli added that during the World Tourism Week, the county government will waive entry charges at the Kisumu National Museum and urged both local and foreign visitors to turn up in large numbers.