12/09/2026
๐ EMPOWERING KENYAโS MARINE GUIDES FOR BETTER OCEAN EXPERIENCES ๐ฌ๐
Five days of learning, sharing and professional development brought together 35 practicing boat operators and marine guides from Watamu, Malindi, Kisite-Mpunguti and Diani at Swahili Beach Resort, Diani.
Organized by IUCN, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), WIOMSA and other key stakeholders, the training focused on strengthening the knowledge, skills and professionalism of those who are at the frontline of Kenyaโs marine tourism experience.
The guides explored key areas including:
๐ฃ๏ธ Storytelling & Interpretation โ turning facts about the ocean into engaging stories that connect visitors with marine ecosystems.
๐ Marine Flora & Fauna Identification โ improving knowledge and confidence in identifying and interpreting marine species.
๐ค Professional Guiding & Visitor Experience โ enhancing safety, communication, professionalism and responsible visitor engagement.
๐ฃ Marketing & Sales โ learning how to promote marine experiences ethically while creating value for visitors and local communities.
๐ฑ Conservation & Sustainable Tourism โ strengthening the role of guides as ambassadors for marine conservation and responsible use of our ocean resources.
Beyond the classroom, the training reinforced an important message: a great marine guide does more than show visitors what is in the oceanโthey help visitors understand why it matters and inspire them to protect it.
With better-trained guides, we can deliver more meaningful visitor experiences, stronger conservation messages and a more sustainable marine tourism sector along Kenyaโs coast. ๐๐
35 guides. 6 key marine destinations. 5 days of learning. One shared commitment - protecting our ocean while creating memorable experiences.
Kenya Wildlife Service
KWS Coast Tourism Circuit
