The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife will partner with the Kisumu government and the private sector to develop the region as a beach and water sports hub.
This is in effort to diversify the region's appeal for domestic and international tourists.
Tourism PS John Ololtua said the lake ecosystem is a resource that could be marketed as an alternative to the Coast's beach destinations.
Attractions such as Ndere Island provide a unique opportunity to tap into the tourism potential of the Western region.
"Ndere island, and by extension all the other islands in Kisumu, offer unique touristic experiences. We are however looking at ways of introducing more adventure activities to these sites," Ololtua said.
Lake Victoria has many opportunities for water sports, much like the marine parks in Mombasa and other coastal towns.
The PS said such diversification efforts would help spread tourism benefits to more regions and contribute to boosting the country's target of three million visitor arrivals by the end of the year.
Ololtua also spoke of plans to co-market the Western Kenya tourism circuit alongside other renowned destinations such as Maasai Mara through infrastructure development that will enhance accessibility to spread visitor numbers and spending.
He emphasised the need to strengthen all tourism circuits to give travelers more leisure value for their money.
The PS spoke during a tour of Kisumu's tourist attractions including Ndere Island and Kit Mikayi as part of activities to mark the Kenya Tourism Week being hosted in the county.
The festivities are a precursor to the World Tourism Day 2024 set for Friday, under the theme, 'Tourism and peace'.
A key focus of this year’s global celebrations is cultural exchange among communities as a pillar of promoting peace and unity, which is being showcased through various events in the county and the region’s heritage sites.
Ololtua, who toured Kit Mikayi, underscored its significance in preserving cultural heritage while urging travelers to take advantage of such attractions that showcase the region's history.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili called on both local and international tourists to support efforts to promote the Western circuit in recognition of its unique natural and cultural endowments.
“The Kit Mikayi (the Stone of the First Wife) holds great intrigue for travellers interested in cultural tourism. I would like to encourage more visitors to tour such sites as well as other attractions including the Ruma National Park, boat tours of the Lake Victoria islands and other destinations so that they get to learn about our rich heritage and help grow the Western region tourism circuit,” Owili said.
