The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife is prioritising increased access to affordable credit for players in the hospitality sector, a move aimed at boosting Kenya’s global appeal as a premier travel destination. Speaking at the 2025 Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers Symposium, Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano emphasised that easing credit access would enable more investors to set up modern tourism infrastructure, particularly in underdeveloped regions.
“One of the areas of focus the government is keen on is making credit for the hospitality industry more accessible and affordable. That way, we shall encourage more investors in the sector to put up modern facilities that the sector can market in various parts of the country,” said Miano.
The ministry has set an ambitious target to attract 2.5 million international visitors in 2025, with a longer-term goal of hitting 5 million arrivals by 2027. This would mark a significant leap from current figures and aligns with government efforts to revitalise tourism following global disruptions in recent years.
Miano also underscored the importance of domestic tourism in anchoring sector stability, calling it an “unsung” segment with immense potential. “Encouraging our own people to rediscover their homeland is the best way of embellishing the bedrock of our industry’s stability,” she noted.
Kenya is already seeing positive regional developments, with the country expecting 300,000 visitors from Uganda, supported by cross-border packages and visa-free travel agreements. These incentives are designed to enhance regional integration and promote multi-destination tourism across East Africa.
Other strategic measures the ministry plans to roll out include embracing the open skies policy to allow more direct international flights into Kenya and integrating artificial intelligence into marketing campaigns. These digital tools aim to capture the attention of younger, tech-savvy travellers who are shaping global tourism trends.
With improved financing mechanisms, regional partnerships, and smart marketing strategies, the Tourism Ministry is positioning Kenya to become a more competitive and inclusive destination on the global stage. The focus on both international and domestic markets signals a holistic approach to sustainable tourism development.
