Tourism remains one of Kenya’s strongest economic pillars, according to the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano.
She noted that the sector continues to record positive growth, contributing significantly to employment and national revenue.
At the close of 2024, Kenya welcomed 2.4 million international visitors, the highest number ever recorded.
“Tourism in Kenya is making progress. In 2024, we welcomed 2.4 million international visitors into the country,” Miano said.
The CS said the surge in arrivals translated into tourism earnings of Sh452 billion. Beyond revenue, however, the sector’s impact on job creation remains remarkable.
Miano said tourism directly supports more than 1.1 million jobs in Kenya, including positions in hotels, travel agencies, tour companies, airlines, and game parks.
In addition, she said the sector supports over 3 million indirect jobs in agriculture, transport, construction, retail, and other services that supply or benefit from tourism activities.
“Tourism is one of the strongest pillars of the economy, supporting more than 1.1 million direct jobs and over 3 million indirect jobs,” Miano emphasised.
She said the combined effect means that tourism sustains the livelihoods of over 4 million Kenyans, making it one of the country’s largest sources of employment.
The sector also plays a critical role in reducing poverty, particularly in rural areas where many tourist sites are located.
CS Miano further underscored the Ministry’s commitment to positioning Kenya as a leading global destination.
“The goal is not only to grow visitor numbers and revenue, but also to expand employment opportunities across the country,” she said.
She added that tourism development must remain central to economic planning. As visitor numbers increase, more jobs will be created, further supporting livelihoods and strengthening the national economy.
Tourism in Kenya, she stressed, is not just about travel — it is about jobs, income, and sustainable growth for millions of Kenyans.
