Tourism Fund to upskill 500 hospitality workers across five counties

The Tourism Fund is set to upskill more than 500 hospitality workers across Kiambu, Narok, Nakuru, Bomet and Kericho counties within the next month to enhance service delivery and professionalism in the sector.

The initiative is part of efforts to strengthen Kenya’s tourism value chain and build a more competitive workforce. Over the weekend, 128 students graduated from Morendat School of Hospitality after completing various courses under the Tourism Fund Upskilling Programme.

The national programme is designed to equip youth and hospitality sector workers with practical, industry-relevant skills aimed at improving employability, boosting productivity and supporting the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s tourism industry.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Board Trustee Patrick Ngere said the programme is shaping a new generation of service professionals.

“The Tourism Fund Upskilling Programme is not only equipping trainees with technical expertise but also positioning them to become champions of service excellence within Kenya's hospitality sector,” he said.

He added that the initiative aligns with the Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda by empowering young people with sustainable, market-driven skills.

For the 128 graduates, the ceremony marked a key milestone as they transition into employment and further professional development in hotels, restaurants and other tourism establishments.

Beneficiaries praised the programme for expanding access to training opportunities.

 “I did not have the money to pursue this course, but through the upskilling programme I was able to train and earn my certificate in Bakery and Pastry. This opportunity has truly changed my path,” said Samuel Magethe, a trainee.

Industry players also cited operational benefits. Geoffrey Njuguna, Manager at Hotel Saape in Kiambu County, said the training had improved staff management and financial planning within hospitality businesses, enabling more efficient and professional operations.

The Tourism Fund said it remains committed to expanding access to quality training and capacity-building programmes to strengthen Kenya’s tourism sector and promote inclusive economic growth.