President William Ruto has reaffirmed Kenya’s status as a global tourism powerhouse, describing it as not just a travel destination but a spiritual homecoming to the birthplace of humanity.
Speaking on Thursday at the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve during the launch of international coverage for the 2025 Great Wildebeest Migration, Ruto said Kenya’s story is deeply rooted in the origins of humankind. “This is the home of humankind. This is the place it all started,” he declared, inviting the world to rediscover their ancestral roots in Kenya.
The Great Wildebeest Migration, often termed the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, is one of the planet’s most spectacular natural events. Each year, it attracts thousands of international visitors, offering a unique window into the raw beauty and biodiversity of Kenya’s wilderness.
Ruto emphasized that Kenya offers more than scenic safaris and pristine beaches. With archaeological sites like Koobi Fora, where the famed Turkana Boy was discovered, Kenya holds a unique place in the story of humanity. These remains, dating back 1.6 million years, affirm the country’s claim as the cradle of humankind.
The President said Kenya is leveraging its rich cultural and natural heritage to become a top-tier destination for both leisure and business. From the Indian Ocean coast to the snow-capped peaks of Mt Kenya and Mt Kilimanjaro, Kenya promises unmatched diversity.
“We are positioning Kenya as a place where visitors can blend relaxation with innovation,” Ruto said. “This is also the hub of creativity and technology.”
Kenya aims to attract five million tourists annually in the medium term. To achieve this, the government has launched aggressive marketing campaigns, streamlined digital visa access, and promoted eco-tourism.
In 2023, the country recorded over 1.7 million international tourist arrivals, marking a 24 per cent growth from the previous year.
Thursday’s global broadcast of the wildebeest migration forms part of Kenya’s broader strategy to reassert its place at the heart of Africa’s tourism revival not just as a destination, but as the origin of us all.
