Tourism and Wildlife cabinet secretary Rebecca Miano has welcomed Kenya’s improvement in the 2026 Henley passport index, where the country climbed five places to rank 68th globally, citing benefits to tourism, diplomacy and global mobility.
Miano said the improved ranking reflects growing international confidence in Kenya and supports easier movement for Kenyans, with positive implications for tourism, investment and cultural exchange.
She noted that stronger passport access complements the country’s tourism strategy, as Kenya targets five million annual visitors by 2027, adding that improved mobility makes it easier for tourists, investors and partners to access the country.
The Cabinet Secretary highlighted that recent progress is partly the result of strengthened diplomatic ties, noting the mid-2025 policy that lifted visa requirements for travelers from African nations. She explained that this step has boosted regional connectivity and cooperation. Miano added that Kenya is actively working on reciprocal travel agreements to expand opportunities for its citizens while continuing to welcome more international visitors.
She emphasized the revival of cruise tourism as another positive sign, pointing to the docking of the Azamara Journey and the return of MV Europa as evidence of renewed confidence in Kenya’s ports. Beyond the tourism sector, Miano stressed that greater ease of global movement also benefits conservation. Enhanced mobility, she said, allows Kenyan wildlife specialists to engage more effectively with international peers, exchanging knowledge and advancing sustainable practices in both tourism and conservation.
