Kenya is relying on tourism within Africa to generate an estimated Sh1.2 trillion boost to its economy by 2027.
The approach aims to establish tourism as a key driver of economic expansion, targeting Sh1 trillion from prospects within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in the coming two years.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki stated that the nation needs to redirect its attention towards regional integration in order to maintain economic expansion, moving away from its conventional dependence on Western and Asian markets.
He addressed the launch of the 15th installment of the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) at Uhuru Gardens on Thursday, October 2.
"Tourism plays a vital role in Kenya's economy and is a key component of our Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). As Africa becomes one of the fastest-growing regions in global tourism recovery, we need to take advantage of the opportunities presented by AfCFTA," Kindiki stated.
"The tourism industry needs to serve as a key partner in transportation, logistics, trade, investments, and small and medium enterprises, promoting coordinated policy results," he added.
As per the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Kenya's tourism industry is expected to contribute Sh1.2 trillion to the economy, representing more than 7 percent of GDP, and also support 1.7 million jobs in 2025, making up over 8 percent of total employment in the country.
The DP mentioned key infrastructure initiatives aimed at boosting the sector, such as the Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway, the expansion of the Standard Gauge Railway, the development of Lamu Port, and additional direct flights from international centers.
He also advocated for expanding into new offerings like space tourism, desert safaris in the Chalbi region, and technology-focused tourism fueled by Kenya's "silicon savannah" image.
"We need to promote the entire Kenya narrative – ranging from our technological advancements to our athletic achievements, from the Cradle of Humankind to our forty dynamic communities," he stated.
Environmental conservation continues to be a key focus, as Kindiki connects the government's nationwide tree-planting initiative with eco-tourism, highlighting that local populations should directly gain from the benefits of tourism.
The exhibition has drawn over 6,500 participants from 40 nations, featuring 400 exhibitors and 200 global purchasers, highlighting its role as a key center for tourism commerce.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano stated that MKTE has become a key hub for facilitating investment.
She pointed out that Kenya's goal of attracting 5.5 million visitors by 2027 depends on improved collaboration between the public and private sectors (PPPs).
"Our primary approach to infrastructure growth continues to be public-private collaborations. Utilizing the knowledge of the private sector along with government backing, we are developing top-tier facilities that improve visitor satisfaction and generate long-term job opportunities within our communities throughout the tourism industry," Miano stated.
Emily Mburu, the Director of Trade in Services, Investment, and Digital Trade at the AfCFTA Secretariat, emphasized the contribution of tourism to fostering regional unity.
"Tourism demonstrates the practical application of AfCFTA. Public-private partnerships draw in Foreign Direct Investment, develop top-tier infrastructure, and generate jobs across borders. As tourists move effortlessly throughout Africa, they trigger supply chains, boost trade, and show that integration provides immediate, concrete advantages to African economies," Mburu said.
Growing internal African demand has made Africa a more significant source of visitors for Kenya, accounting for 40.8% of international tourists in 2024.
Authorities noted that the trend underscores the possibilities of internal African tourism in fostering resilience and decreasing dependence on distant markets.
The event this year has implemented digital matchmaking tools to help arrange B2B meetings between purchasers and vendors in advance.
It also includes five-day orientation trips, combined marketing initiatives, and specific sessions discussing the creative economy's impact on tourism.
With Kenya intensifying its attention on opportunities under the AfCFTA, the government is placing its confidence in tourism's ability to foster both development and environmental responsibility.
As forecasts suggest an economic worth of Sh1.2 trillion within the next two years, tourism is being seen as one of the nation's most powerful drivers of change.
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