The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has partnered with all 47 county governments to identify and promote new tourism attractions and products to boost local tourism.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano said that the collaboration seeks to encourage Kenyans to explore and appreciate the country’s diverse beauty.
She added that the initiative was expected to contribute significantly to increasing visitor numbers to Kenya’s various tourist sites, thereby enhancing the tourism sector’s contribution in the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.
“Our strategy is to bring every stakeholder on board to help expand tourism’s contribution to Kenya’s economy. As we celebrate World Tourism Day, I cannot overstate the need and urgency to resolutely promote domestic tourism,” CS Miano stated during the 45th World Tourism Day celebrations held in Kisumu County on Friday, September 27.
She further noted that through the Kenya Tourism Board, the national government is committed to investing in youth through education, training, and entrepreneurial support to promote sustainable growth in the tourism industry.
“Kisumu County is already leading the way by supporting young people in tourism-related ventures through arts, sports, and technology. Young entrepreneurs are driving social change and promoting peace,” Miano said.
The CS reiterated the government’s move to approve free entry into all national parks and reserves as a strategy to promote local tourism. She urged Kenyans to take advantage of this offer to explore the beauty of their own country.
“The more you tour Kenya, the more you will understand and respect the diverse ways in which people live, fostering peace, mutual respect, and goodwill,” she added.
At the same event, Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, who chairs the Council of Governors (COG) Tourism and Wildlife Committee, reaffirmed the counties’ commitment to supporting and promoting the growth of the tourism sector.
“County governments are committed to working with the national government to further develop, brand, and market tourist attractions to maximize the potential of our tourism assets and position Kenya as a top global destination,” he said.
To support these efforts, Governor Ntutu noted that 17 county governments have already enacted tourism-related policies and strategies, while 12 counties have developed wildlife policies to create a conducive environment for the sector’s growth.
Additionally, COG has documented a calendar of cultural events in all 47 counties, urging Kenyans to attend and learn more about the country’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.
By Robert Ojwang’
