Kenya forecasts a 15 to 20 percent increase in tourism business year-on-year following its participation at the World Travel Market (WTM) event held in London in November 2026. The Kenya Tourism Board showcased the country’s tourism and hospitality sectors during the event.
Kenya Tourism Board Emphasizes Safety and Accurate Travel Advisories
June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board, confirmed that Kenya remains a safe and welcoming travel destination. She urged foreign governments to base their travel advisories on current, evidence-based information to support traveler confidence.
“Kenya remains a safe, welcoming and diverse destination, offering excellent experiences and authentic hospitality to all travellers,” Chepkemei stated. She highlighted the role
of accurate and updated advisories in enabling travelers to make informed decisions.
Tourism Business Growth and Market Interest
Mike Macharia, CEO of the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers, reported that members within the association have seen business expand by between 15 and 20 percent compared to the previous year. This growth is accompanied by an increase in high-net-worth visitors who tend to spend more during their stays.
Joseph Muya, Marketing Director of Lake Nakuru Lodge, pointed out the importance of maintaining balanced travel advisories following Kenya’s reported Ebola case. He warned that overly restrictive advisories could undermine the tourism sector’s progress, noting that travel agents
have not expressed major concerns relating to the situation.
Muya also noted growing interest from the European market, with bookings indicating sustained demand for Kenyan tourism products.
Fred Kaigua, CEO of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators, expressed optimism about increasing visitor numbers and Kenya’s enhanced international exposure after WTM London. Kaigua emphasized the importance of responding to travel advisory concerns with facts to reassure potential travelers.
“Our task is to respond with facts and figures and reassure travellers that they are in good hands,” said Kaigua.
Drivers Behind Tourism Growth
Macharia attributed part of the tourism business growth to government investment in infrastructure.
He called for continued and dependable funding for destination marketing efforts, especially through the Kenya Tourism Board, to sustain international promotional campaigns.
Industry Response to Travel Advisories and Marketing Strategy
Tourism stakeholders agree that sustained destination marketing, stronger public-private partnerships, and ongoing engagement with international travel partners are essential to convert increased interest into confirmed bookings and higher tourism revenue.
The Kenya Tourism Board and industry associations continue to address travel advisory issues by providing accurate, updated information to ensure traveler confidence remains high amidst concerns such as the Ebola case.
