Kenya’s tourism sector projects a year-on-year business growth of between 15 and 20 percent following its participation at the World Travel Market (WTM) London in November 2026, where the country promoted its tourism experiences and hospitality offerings to international travel partners.
Kenya Tourism Board Highlights Readiness and Safety
Kenya Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer June Chepkemei engaged industry stakeholders at the Kenya pavilion during WTM London 2026. She urged foreign governments to base travel advisories on current, evidence-based conditions, emphasizing that “Kenya remains a safe, welcoming and diverse destination, offering excellent experiences and authentic hospitality to all travellers.”
Chepkemei stressed the importance of regularly updated and accurate
travel advisories to maintain visitor confidence and support informed decision-making.
Impact of Travel Advisories Following Ebola Case
Lake Nakuru Lodge Marketing Director Joseph Muya advocated for a balanced approach toward travel advisories after the reported Ebola case in Kenya. He warned that overly stringent restrictions could harm the tourism sector’s recovery and noted that travel agents have not expressed major concerns regarding the outbreak.
Muya reported sustained demand from the European market, indicating growing interest and booking prospects.
Tourism Sector Growth Supported by Infrastructure Investment
Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) Chief Executive Officer Mike Macharia confirmed that members are experiencing business growth of 15 to 20 percent annually. He attributed this partly
to government investments in infrastructure and called for consistent and predictable funding to support Kenya Tourism Board’s international marketing campaigns. Macharia noted an upswing in higher-net-worth visitors who are expected to contribute increased spending in the sector.
Fred Kaigua, Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO), expressed optimism about growth prospects, citing rising inbound visitor numbers and enhanced global visibility. Kaigua emphasized the need to provide accurate information to travelers to address concerns, stating, “Our task is to respond with facts and figures and reassure travellers that they are in good hands.”
Sustained Marketing and Partnerships Critical to Growth
Tourism stakeholders highlighted sustained
destination marketing, strengthened public-private partnerships, and ongoing engagement with international travel partners as key to converting international interest into confirmed bookings and increased earnings. Kenya’s presence at major events like WTM London 2026 has boosted its international profile, contributing to the projected tourism business growth of between 15 and 20 percent year-on-year.
