Kenya is putting the innovation at the centre of its tourism growth plan by the government embracing artificial intelligence, predictive analytics and blockchain technology to provide world-class visitor experiences as well as consolidating conservation and community benefits.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano speaking during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, said technology is no longer an option for the sector but a necessity for growth, as the country gets ready to receive over five million visitors. “By using AI, driven systems, we intends to go beyond only handling statistics to creating easy, personalised and memorable experiences at the destination.” Miano remarked
From simplified entry through the electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system to AI, based wildlife monitoring in the Maasai Mara, technology is impacting both hospitality and conservation.
The Cabinet Secretary said that digital tools are not only making it easier for tourists to get around but at the same time, more effective measures are taken to protect wildlife and natural ecosystems.
Miano pointed out that using AI and blockchain in tourism operations will also help to do away with costly and time, consuming bureaucratic processes.
“Reliable digital booking systems are assumed to minimize leakages, lower operating costs and ensure that a larger portion of tourism revenue goes straight to local communities and conservancies.” she added
Kenya is aiming to become a worldwide Travel Tech hub by Making use of innovation to double the tourism sector’s contribution to gross domestic product up to eight per cent by the end of next year.
According to Miano, it is a move that goes hand in hand with the country’s efforts to modernise the economy and attract tech, driven investment into the tourism value chain.
Miano called on the technology and travel partners to work with Kenya, as the country is digitisation ready for co, creation. She also said the digital doors to Magical Kenya have been flung wide open, heralding a new era of technology, enhanced tourism growth.
