Kenya’s tourism sector posted strong growth during the Ministry’s first year in office, with international tourist arrivals increasing by 15 per cent from 2.09 million in 2023 to 2.4 million in 2024.
In 2024, tourism earnings hit a record of KSh452. 2 billion a rise of 20 per cent.
This brought more revenue for the economy of the country resulting to more job opportunities.
The Ministry also enhanced Kenya’s standing in the international arena through gaining the Kenya seat on the UN Tourism Executive Council for the term 2025- 2029 for the continent of Africa. This enables Kenya and Africa to voice her stance when African and world tourism policies are being formulated.
Enhancing visitor experience, the ministry introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in collaboration with the Department of Immigration making travel to Kenya faster and more efficient. Airlines routes to Kenya was also increased through the introduction of new direct flight operations by AirAsia on the Kuala Lumpur-Nairobi route, Brussels Airlines and Air China.
Quality standards were maintained through the accreditation of 1, 614 accommodation and catering establishments in a nationwide initiative to raise standards of service and enhance Kenya’s image as a destination of excellence.
The Ministry established the Tourism Training Revolving Fund with HELB to give over 2, 000 hospitality students opportunities to undergo training and pursue careers in the tourism sector.
The Ministry also introduced the Magical Kenya Mountain & Trail Series to put the spotlight on scenic highlands, trails and hidden destinations along well, established tourism routes.
Working together with private sector and county governments has been reinforced by working in partnership with KATA, KAHC KTF and counties of Kilifi, Murang’a Embu Mombasa and Nyandarua to diversify tourism products and improve destination competitiveness.
Furthermore, the ministry deepened international cooperation for mountain competitiveness through a raft of activities like hosting high level delegations such as the European Union ambassadors that culminated in signing a Memorandum of Understanding to advance tourism investment and joint marketing initiatives.
Tourism innovation programmes hackathons entrepreneurship support and the close to completion of the Youth Tourism Hub also aim to broaden youth empowerment strategies at the level of innovation to nurture youth creativity, collaboration and skills development.
Also, the Ministry issued its 2023-2027 Strategic Plan to provide direction for sustainable tourism and wildlife growth and innovation and increased industry competitiveness.
Tourist security was upgraded with a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Ministry of Interior to improve the functioning of the Tourist Police Unit in all parts of the country and solidify Kenya’s image of safe tourism.
