Kenya boosts tourism with an aim to attract 11,500 tourist arrivals daily

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Kenya has set an ambitious target to significantly boost its tourism sector by aiming for 11,500 tourist arrivals daily by the 2026-27 financial year, up from the current 1.9 million annual international tourist arrivals. This strategic move is part of the government’s broader initiative to more than double tourism earnings from the current Sh347.4 billion to Sh759 billion within the same timeframe, reflecting the sector’s substantial growth potential.

The Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife, in its report on the 2024 Budget Policy Statement, highlighted the government’s plan to enhance the overall visitor experience and increase the number of international guests. Kereke Mbiuki, the Committee Chair, emphasized the significance of digitization in achieving these goals.

The State Department for Tourism is spearheading the development of a National Tourism Service Portal, a comprehensive platform designed to showcase Kenya’s vast tourism offerings and streamline service delivery within the sector. This initiative is expected to significantly contribute to making Kenya a more attractive and accessible destination for prospective visitors.

To support the anticipated growth in tourist arrivals, the government is also focusing on capacity building within the hospitality industry. Kenya Utalii College, a premier institution for hospitality training, is planning to expand its presence to Narok County, among other regions, aiming to increase the number of graduates to cater to the growing demands of the tourism sector. This effort underscores the commitment to enhancing the quality of service and professionalism in Kenya’s hospitality industry.

The proposed budget for the State Department for Tourism for the financial year 2024/2025 stands at Sh10.9 billion, with a notable portion allocated to both recurrent and development expenditures. However, a funding gap of Sh2.9 billion remains, highlighting the need for additional resources to fully realize the department’s objectives.

Additionally, the Tourism Regulatory Authority is actively working on regulations for Airbnb operations, indicating the government’s intention to adapt to changing travel trends and ensure a regulated and competitive accommodation sector. This, along with other critical projects such as national mapping of tourism niche products and coastal beach management programmes, forms part of the strategic initiatives aimed at revitalizing and expanding Kenya’s tourism industry.

As Kenya gears up to welcome a surge in tourist arrivals, these comprehensive measures reflect a well-rounded approach to fostering sustainable growth in the tourism sector, positioning the country as a leading global destination by 2027.

« Back to Page