Kirinyaga County Pushes for Tourism Development to Boost Kenya’s Local Economy, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 13, 2025

In one of the most emphatic political and economic statements, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru used Jamhuri Day celebrations this year to strongly make a case for her county’s transformation into a high-value tourism hub. During the function held at Wang’uru Girls Senior School on December 12, 2025, Waiguru outlined her vision for Kirinyaga’s tourism sector-an indication of a major shift in the county’s development strategy and laying the foundation for economic diversification in the future.

This bold initiative, summarized in the proposed Kirinyaga County Local Tourism Bill, 2025, promises to redefine the county’s role in the tourism landscape of Kenya. It was through her strategic vision that Waiguru sought to create a structured path for the county to develop its natural beauty and cultural heritage, leveraging its unique positioning in the country’s central region.

Repositioning Kirinyaga: From Transit Corridor to Tourism Hub

Historically, Kirinyaga County has been regarded as a sleepy transit corridor, often bypassed by tourists on their way to more well-known destinations like Mt. Kenya or the Aberdare Ranges. However, Waiguru’s new agenda marks a clear intent to change this perception. The Governor emphasized that tourism in Kirinyaga has been largely ad-hoc, lacking the proper regulation and infrastructure to unlock its full potential.

At the heart of Waiguru’s pitch is the Kirinyaga County Local Tourism Bill, 2025, which seeks to formalize and regulate the growing tourism sector. According to Waiguru, the tourism sector has “outgrown ad-hoc management,” and the time is ripe for a more structured approach. The bill will lay the foundation for a more organized tourism industry, aiming to capitalize on Kirinyaga’s natural assets, from its forest trails and river ecosystems to its proximity to the world-renowned Mt. Kenya.

The Governor subtly urged the County Assembly to fast-track the passage of the bill, positioning it as a tool to boost economic growth and diversification. By developing tourism into a core industry, Kirinyaga could benefit from increased local and international tourism flows, creating jobs, attracting investment, and improving infrastructure.

Tourism Bill Highlights: Expanding Opportunities and Attracting Investment

The Kirinyaga County Local Tourism Bill is both ambitious and forward-looking. It proposes several key initiatives, including the commercialization of cultural assets, the expansion of sports tourism, and the establishment of stronger regulatory frameworks for tourism enterprises. One of the bill’s most important aspects is the push for private sector investment in tourism, including incentives for investors in hotels, resorts, and eco-tourism facilities.

In particular, Waiguru has highlighted the development of adventure tourism, with growing activities such as rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and zip-lining along the Sagana River. These activities are transforming the county’s tourism profile, attracting both domestic tourists and adventure enthusiasts from abroad. By introducing such dynamic activities, Kirinyaga is tapping into the rapidly expanding adventure tourism market, which has proven to be a significant driver of tourism in Kenya.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to regulate and promote cultural tourism, particularly through the establishment of tourism-friendly initiatives around Kirinyaga’s many natural and historical sites. Key attractions include Kamweti, Gatitika, Rwamuthambi, Karumandi, and Njine Kabia waterfalls, alongside important cultural sites like Ndaraca ya Ngai, Thingira Cultural Centre, and Murinduko Hill, which offer hiking, cycling, and cultural experiences for tourists.

Infrastructure Development: A Key Pillar for Tourism Growth

Infrastructure development plays a central role in Waiguru’s tourism strategy. The Governor noted that Kirinyaga County has made significant progress in improving its road networks, upgrading towns, and enhancing water access. With over 160 hospitality establishments already in operation, the county is laying the groundwork for a more robust tourism industry capable of handling increased visitor numbers.

However, Waiguru emphasized that further improvements are needed to fully tap into the potential of tourism. This includes enhancing transport networks, particularly in rural areas, and expanding the range of available accommodation options to suit different budgets and tastes. The development of new hotels, eco-lodges, and guesthouses will be critical to attracting both domestic and international tourists.

Another significant infrastructure project highlighted by Waiguru is the Sagana Industrial City, which is set to include an Export Processing Zone, a Special Economic Zone, and a County Aggregation and Industrial Park. While the industrial zone will focus on manufacturing and job creation, it is also seen as a catalyst for hospitality and agro-tourism development, further linking Kirinyaga’s economic growth to its expanding tourism sector. This integrated development strategy ensures that the county is not just relying on tourism alone but also fostering a diversified economy with multiple growth sectors.

A Bold Political Move with Far-reaching Implications

Politically, Waiguru’s emphasis on tourism ties into her broader agenda for economic diversification and development within the Mt. Kenya region. By prioritizing tourism, the Governor aims to cement her legacy as a transformative leader who can reshape Kirinyaga’s economic future. Tourism, alongside agriculture and manufacturing, could provide the economic foundation for the county’s long-term prosperity.

Additionally, the proposed tourism bill is a calculated political move, positioning Waiguru as a key figure in the Mt. Kenya region and bolstering her political capital. With Kenya’s 2027 elections on the horizon, Waiguru’s push for tourism development could serve as a platform for strengthening her political base, especially among voters who view economic growth and job creation as top priorities.

Strategic Partnerships and Stakeholder Support

The Governor’s tourism vision has garnered backing from key political and business stakeholders, including the County Assembly. Speaker Muteti Murimi has confirmed that the tourism bill will be prioritized once the assembly reconvenes after the Christmas break. This signals that Waiguru’s legislative coalition remains strong, with a broad political consensus on the importance of tourism for Kirinyaga’s future.

As the festive season begins, Waiguru has also issued an open invitation to Kenyans to visit Kirinyaga and experience its food culture, outdoor adventures, and natural attractions. This invitation not only promotes local tourism but also reinforces a strategic message: Kirinyaga is positioning itself as a competitive tourism destination, ready to draw both domestic and international tourists.

Kirinyaga’s Future as a Tourism Powerhouse

The moves by Governor Anne Waiguru to make Kirinyaga the next war zone for tourists in Kenya are part of a larger economic vision that she has for the county. It is evident that Kirinyaga is on course to becoming a major player in the tourism sector in the republic of Kenya.

The growth in the tourism sector means that the natural attraction, cultural, and adventure offerings that Kirinyaga has to offer will pull even more tourists into the county, hence developing the local economy. The transformation of Kirinyaga into a major tourist destination is already in full swing, thanks to the participation of the county’s entire population and support from the county’s assembly.