Berlin - The African nations of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda are working on plans to a introduce a joint tourist visa system.

The "Unity Visa" is due to come into operation in 2010, according to Kenya's Tourism Minister, Najib Balala, speaking at the ITB tourist trade fair in Berlin.

Balala says interest has grown among the three countries, who belong to the intergovernmental organization, the East African Community, in creating a cross-border tourist market.

Kenya also announced a reduction in its tourist visa charge to 25 dollars. Children and teenagers up to the age of 16 do not require a visa to enter the country.

Tourism is one of Kenya's most important sources of foreign exchange, but the sector almost collapsed after violence broke out following a disputed election result last year. Meanwhile, foreign visitor numbers are returning to figures seen before the unrest.

One of the biggest tourism projects due to be completed this year is the restoration of the railway connecting Mombassa on the Indian Ocean with the Ugandan capital of Kampala, said the tourism minister. (dpa)