Africa And It’s Zoonotic Disease Threat: Kenya’s Tourism Faces Growing Risks, Here’s What You Need To Know

Published on July 6, 2025

Kenya, a country with rich wildlife and a booming tourism industry situated in East Africa , is increasingly threatened by zoonotic diseases—diseases that spread from animals to humans. With 60% of all infectious diseases affecting humans reported to be spreading from animals by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and more than 75% of emerging infections being zoonotic, the threat to public health as well as to tourism has risen. As global travel, urbanization, and climate change hasten the transmission of these diseases, Kenya’s tourism sector is under increasing stress. Experts are sounding warnings, urging the implementation of strengthened disease surveillance, greater international collaboration, and enlightened public health measures to avert outbreaks.

Zoonotic Diseases: A Growing Concern for Kenya

Kenya is home to a rich biodiversity, making it a major tourist destination, especially for wildlife safaris. However, its close proximity to wild animals also exposes the country to the risk of zoonotic diseases. Diseases like anthrax, rabies, brucellosis, and Rift Valley fever are endemic in certain regions, with the potential to spread rapidly through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated food and water.

Recent reports by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) emphasize that the transmission of diseases from animals to humans is becoming more frequent. This has raised concerns not only for public health but also for the future of the tourism industry, which heavily relies on healthy wildlife and a safe environment for travelers.

In Kenya, diseases like trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) and Rift Valley Fever are especially concerning. These diseases have previously caused significant outbreaks, with the potential to disrupt both local communities and tourism activities. A single outbreak can lead to travel advisories, reduced visitor numbers, and a tarnished reputation for the country’s wildlife and nature reserves.

The Impact on Tourism

The tourism sector in Kenya is a major contributor to the national economy, with millions of international tourists visiting the country each year to explore its world-famous national parks, wildlife safaris, and pristine beaches. However, the risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks is a growing concern. The connection between human health, animal health, and environmental health means that the presence of zoonotic diseases can impact both locals and tourists, particularly in areas like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo.

When diseases like rabies or avian influenza make headlines, international travelers may be discouraged from visiting, especially if they are concerned about the safety of interacting with animals. The loss of confidence in the safety of Kenya’s wildlife could lead to significant financial losses for hotels, safari operators, and other tourism-related businesses.

The government’s response to zoonotic diseases has significant implications for the tourism industry. The lack of a coordinated response or timely information regarding disease outbreaks could lead to misinformation, heightened fear, and decreased travel bookings. Moreover, the absence of effective disease surveillance systems at the community level exacerbates the situation, as tourists may unknowingly expose themselves to the risks of infection while traveling.

The Role of Government and International Agencies

The Kenyan government, along with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the FAO, has been calling for increased efforts in disease prevention, detection, and control. Experts argue that effective surveillance systems are essential for identifying outbreaks early and taking preventive measures before they spiral into larger health crises. However, as highlighted by Doris Nyamwaya, a microbiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Kenya lacks comprehensive data on zoonotic diseases, making it difficult to plan for and respond to these risks effectively.

Official reports suggest that only a few counties in Kenya have implemented disease surveillance systems, leaving large parts of the country vulnerable. This poses a significant challenge to both public health and the tourism sector, as an outbreak in a major tourist area could disrupt travel plans and damage the country’s reputation as a safe destination.

To address this, experts are advocating for stronger partnerships between government agencies, tourism stakeholders, and international bodies to create a unified approach to combating zoonotic diseases. Surveillance, better healthcare infrastructure, and community engagement are essential for minimizing the impact of animal-borne diseases on tourism.

Climate Change and Urbanization: A Growing Threat

The rapid pace of urbanization and climate change are accelerating the spread of zoonotic diseases in Kenya. Climate fluctuations are changing the distribution of animal populations and the pathogens they carry, while urban sprawl brings humans and animals into closer contact, further facilitating the transmission of diseases. In rural areas where agriculture and livestock farming are predominant, these risks are even more pronounced.

Experts warn that without urgent action, the spread of zoonotic diseases may become a significant barrier to the growth of Kenya’s tourism industry. According to official reports, the tourism sector could face prolonged downturns if outbreaks continue to affect major tourist hubs. Additionally, the impact of such outbreaks could result in lower foreign exchange earnings, lost jobs in the hospitality industry, and a slowdown in economic growth.

The Path Forward: Prevention, Education, and Collaboration

As the world marks World Zoonoses Day, the message is clear: prevention, education, and collaboration are vital to safeguarding human and animal health, as well as the tourism sector. The government must prioritize investments in disease surveillance systems, educate both locals and tourists on how to minimize risks, and work with international organizations to strengthen emergency response protocols.

Moreover, sustainable tourism practices that minimize the human-wildlife interface will play an important role in mitigating future outbreaks. By safeguarding animal health, Kenya can help protect both its people and its booming tourism industry. Long-term strategies focusing on public health, disease control, and international cooperation will be crucial in ensuring that Kenya remains a top tourist destination while reducing the risks posed by zoonotic diseases.

Conclusion

Kenyan tourism, closely linked to the health of its wildlife, is increasingly threatened by zoonosis infections. Through effective surveillance of diseases, heightened government action, and international cooperation, Kenya can contain the impacts of these infections in both tourism and public realms. As World Zoonoses Day reminds us all, collaboration and prevention hold the key to the future of tourism, wildlife conservation, and the health of all animals in Kenya.