Kenya integrates youth hospitality training into Taptengelei Festival
Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has launched a Youth Hospitality Training Programme at Tinderet Integrated Technical and Trainers College in Nandi County during the Taptengelei Cultural Festival on 23 January 2026. Developed with the Kenya Tourism Board, Kenya Utalii College, Tinderet Integrated Technical and Trainers College and Bandari College, the initiative targets the sector’s skills gap by training young Kenyans in hospitality management, cruise ship operations and adventure tourism services – with youth comprising around 70% of the tourism workforce.
CS Rebecca Miano said the programme aims to create sustainable career pathways and lift service standards, including tapping cruise tourism potential at the coast. Government leaders, including Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, underscored culture’s role in destination development and a commitment to preservation through a dedicated department. The festival showcased Kalenjin heritage and formed part of the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series, which culminates on Saturday with the Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run – a selection event for the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships.
Source: Tourism News Africa
