Kenya’s tourism industry is set for significant growth, with the government unveiling bold strategies to boost the sector.
Speaking at a Senate Departmental Committee on Tourism meeting in Mombasa, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, highlighted the sector’s resilience in 2024 and ambitious targets for the future.
Tourism contributed 10.4 percent to Kenya’s GDP and accounted for 5 percent of national employment. In 2024, the country welcomed 2.4 million international visitors, a 14.6 percent increase from 2023, generating Ksh. 452.2 billion in revenue—a 19.79 percent rise.
Domestic tourism also flourished, with bed occupancy increasing by 12 percent to 5.2 million.CS Miano credited the success to initiatives such as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, enhanced marketing, and new international airline connections.
Looking ahead, the government aims to attract 5 million tourists by 2027, doubling revenue to Ksh. 988.2 billion. Key strategies include diversifying tourism products, enhancing global marketing, strengthening policies, improving business tourism infrastructure, and empowering youth.
To sustain this momentum, the Ministry is collaborating with county governments to boost tourism offerings in regions like Samburu, Kisumu, and Narok.
A major focus will be classifying tourism establishments across all 47 counties to ensure quality standards.“With collective efforts, I have no doubt that we can achieve our ambitious targets,” CS Miano stated.
If these strategies are effectively implemented, Kenya’s rich cultural and natural attractions will solidify its status as a top global destination.
