Tourism earned Kenya Sh142.5bn in first half of 2024

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has reported a significant increase in tourist visits to regions beyond the Maasai Mara National Reserve, which is currently operating at full capacity due to the wildebeest migration season.

During a visit to the Maasai Mara, KTB CEO June Chepkemei underscored the role of Mara as a hub for tourists to explore other regions after the mesmerizing annual wildebeest migration. She revealed that in the first half of the year, the country welcomed 1,027,630 international visitors, marking a 21.3% growth compared to the same period in 2023, which saw 847,810 visitors.

These arrivals, she noted, have contributed to Ksh 142.5 billion in revenue, with domestic tourism recording 2.25 million bed nights, a 10% increase from 2.06 million in the corresponding period last year.

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General Dr. Erustus Kanga, who was also present during the tour, emphasized the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism practices in establishing Kenya as a competitive tourism destination.

He singled out the growing interest among modern travelers in the sustainability of tourism operations, emphasizing KWS’s efforts to collaborate with government agencies, sectors, and communities to promote sustainable conservation initiatives.

Dr. Kanga underscored KWS’s commitment to training conservancy rangers and providing technical support for ecotourism management. He also stressed the importance of empowering communities to engage in nature-based enterprises, such as crocodile farming, ostrich rearing, chameleon breeding, aloe cultivation, beekeeping, and guinea fowl farming.

At the same time, Dr. Kanga urged the public to support the ongoing KWS #TunzaMaliYako campaign, which encourages Kenyans to contribute to nature conservation as the cornerstone of national development.

Ms. Chepkemei reiterated the tourism sector’s sustained growth in domestic tourism over the years, highlighting the industry’s collaborative efforts to promote sustainable tourism practices and enhance the overall visitor experience.

She added that KTB, together with the partners in tourism, will soon unveil a second phase of the Tembea Kenya campaign to woo domestic travellers.