The KEPSA/IFC Worldbank TOT Training Partnership is proving to be a groundbreaking initiative, bringing meaningful change to Kenya’s tourism industry—particularly among women. Through strategic collaboration between the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group, and the Kenya Association of Women in Tourism (KAWT), this capacity-building program is equipping women leaders and entrepreneurs with vital skills to advance their businesses and careers in tourism.

This partnership marks a significant step in aligning Kenya’s private sector development goals with global standards of inclusive growth, sustainability, and gender equity.

Background: A Sector in Recovery and Transformation

The tourism sector in Kenya, like in many parts of the world, was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its resilience and potential for economic recovery, gaps in skills development, digital transformation, and gender inclusion continue to hold back growth. Women, who make up a significant portion of the sector’s workforce, have often been left behind when it comes to training, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities.

Recognizing this gap, KEPSA, in collaboration with the IFC World Bank Group, launched a Trainer of Trainers (TOT) program designed to build local training capacity and develop a ripple effect of knowledge transfer across tourism communities.

Objectives of the TOT Training Partnership

The KEPSA/IFC Worldbank TOT Training Partnership was initiated with the following core objectives:

1. Empower Women in Tourism
   To build the skills and knowledge of women involved in the tourism value chain, from entrepreneurs to employees, equipping them to thrive in a competitive and rapidly evolving industry.

2. Establish a Network of Certified Trainers
   To develop a pool of certified trainers across the country who can deliver localized training sessions in line with international best practices.

3. Promote Inclusive Economic Growth
   By focusing on women and marginalized communities, the program contributes to the broader national agenda of inclusive and sustainable economic development.

4. Support Digital Transformation in Tourism
   Training modules also focus on e-commerce, online marketing, digital financial literacy, and other tools critical to operating in the post-pandemic travel economy.

Role of the Kenya Association of Women in Tourism (KAWT)

The Kenya Association of Women in Tourism (KAWT) has played a pivotal role in mobilizing and coordinating the participation of women from various counties. As an umbrella body representing women working in diverse areas of the tourism sector—including hoteliers, tour operators, curio traders, guides, and cultural custodians—KAWT ensures that the voices of grassroots women are heard and included.

Through the KEPSA/IFC Worldbank TOT Training Partnership, KAWT identified qualified participants and helped them access the training sessions delivered both virtually and in person.

Structure and Content of the TOT Training

The Trainer of Trainers (TOT) model is designed to have a multiplier effect. Participants undergo a rigorous training curriculum facilitated by experienced professionals and subject-matter experts. Once trained, these individuals are expected to cascade their knowledge within their communities and institutions.

Key Training Modules Include:

• Business Management Skills: Financial planning, budgeting, and operational efficiency.

• Leadership and Communication: Tools for effective leadership, personal branding, and stakeholder engagement.

• Sustainability in Tourism: Environmental conservation, responsible travel practices, and aligning with Kenya’s green growth strategy.

• Digital Marketing and E-Commerce: Creating online visibility, using social media platforms, and leveraging digital tools for bookings and payments.

• Customer Service Excellence: Elevating guest experience and promoting repeat visitation.

Participants also received soft skills coaching and were introduced to global case studies to draw inspiration from other successful women-led tourism enterprises.

County-Level Impact and Reach

The reach of the KEPSA/IFC Worldbank TOT Training Partnership has been impressive, touching counties across the coastal, central, and rift regions of Kenya. Beneficiaries ranged from tour guides in Samburu, lodge owners in Laikipia, to cultural entrepreneurs in Kilifi and curio shop operators in Nairobi’s bustling markets.

Participants expressed appreciation not only for the practical skills gained but also for the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, mentors, and funding partners.

Long-Term Vision and Sustainability

KEPSA and IFC are committed to the long-term success of this initiative. Beyond training, the partnership is exploring follow-up programs to support participants with business incubation, access to finance, and mentorship networks.

In addition, KEPSA aims to institutionalize the TOT framework within county governments and training colleges, ensuring that capacity-building continues long after the initial funding cycle.

Alignment with National and Global Goals

This partnership aligns seamlessly with Kenya’s Vision 2030 blueprint, particularly in the area of economic empowerment and gender equality. At a global level, it contributes to the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically:

• Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls

• Goal 8: Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth

• Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns