President William Ruto on Thursday officially launched the global live broadcast of the 2025 Great Wildebeest Migration from the Masai Mara, in a landmark move aimed at elevating Kenya’s global tourism profile.
The event, held in partnership with China Media Group Africa and CGTN, marks a strategic effort to showcase one of the world’s most extraordinary natural spectacles to millions of viewers worldwide.
The President described the initiative as part of a broader campaign to position Kenya as a leading travel destination, with an ambitious goal of attracting five million international tourists by 2027.
“This historic broadcast is a powerful reminder of what is possible when vision meets partnership,” Ruto said.
“It is also a call to the world to travel with purpose, to preserve what is precious, and to pass on a healthier planet to future generations.”
During his visit, President Ruto toured the Mara Reserve to witness the wildebeest migration firsthand and held a public rally at the Sekenani Gate, one of the main entry points to the reserve.
He also sat down for an exclusive interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), whose broadcast is expected to reach an estimated global audience of over 25 million.
The annual wildebeest migration hailed as the “eighth wonder of the world” and recently listed in the World Book of Records (UK) features the movement of over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
It is one of the largest and longest terrestrial migrations on the planet, capturing the drama of nature as animals traverse crocodile-infested rivers and predator-laden savannahs in search of fresh pastures.
“The Masai Mara is the crown jewel of Kenya’s tourism, and a global symbol of conservation success,” Ruto noted, adding that the reserve already attracts over 400,000 visitors annually.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, who joined the President for the launch, emphasized Kenya’s commitment to expanding its tourism offerings beyond wildlife and beaches. She pointed to emerging niches such as cultural tourism, sports and conference tourism, and digital innovation.
Miano also highlighted the uniqueness of the year 2025, describing it as a “mathematically charming” year—a perfect square (45×45)—inviting travellers to explore Kenya’s diverse experiences during what she called a “quad experience” year.
Ruto praised ongoing partnerships with international players such as China under the Belt and Road Initiative, noting that they represent not just infrastructural investment but shared responsibility in protecting the planet.
Kenya recorded 2.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2024, a 15% increase from the previous year.
The government sees this momentum as a sign of renewed global confidence in Kenya as a safe, diverse, and vibrant destination.
“Kenya is open, radiant, and ready to share her soul with the world,” Ruto declared.
The Great Migration, which spans from July to October, begins in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area, winds through the Serengeti, and enters the Mara in pursuit of greener pastures.
The animals brave harsh terrain, swift rivers, and relentless predators—offering a profound display of survival and ecological balance.
As global attention turns to the Mara, the Kenyan government hopes this spectacular event will not only boost tourism numbers but also underscore the urgent need for wildlife conservation in a rapidly changing climate.
