CS Miano Makes Rapid Progress in Kenya’s Tourism and Wildlife Sectors



October 9, 2024
In just a month since taking over as Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage, Rebecca Miano has already made significant strides in revitalizing Kenya’s tourism and wildlife sectors. Her swift and effective leadership has drawn widespread attention and praise from across the country.
One of her first major challenges was addressing the hyena menace in Juja and surrounding areas, where residents had been terrorized by roaming wildlife. Under her directives, an elite Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) team was deployed to the area, and the problem has since been resolved, allowing local communities to coexist safely with wildlife once more.
In celebration of World Tourism Week, CS Miano introduced a number of initiatives aimed at boosting both domestic and international tourism. She led a campaign offering Kenyans free access to all national parks and launched nine regional tourism circuits as part of a market diversification strategy. These circuits aim to attract visitors by promoting emerging niches such as adventure, sports, eco-tourism, and wellness tourism.
“We have designed these circuits to meet current demands and emerging trends while aligning with conservation priorities. Each region offers a unique experience, and we encourage travelers to explore Kenya’s diverse offerings,” Miano stated during a launch event in Kisumu.
Miano has also been at the forefront of conservation efforts. During World Rhino Day celebrations in Samburu, she highlighted Kenya’s pioneering work in saving the critically endangered northern white rhino through in-vitro fertilization (IVF). With only two individuals remaining at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Miano expressed optimism about the scientific advances being made to bring the species back from the brink of extinction.
In a further demonstration of her commitment to conservation, the CS recently spearheaded the translocation of 50 elephants from Mwea National Reserve to Aberdare National Park. This relocation effort is part of ongoing work to improve human-wildlife coexistence and address environmental degradation in the reserve.
Miano’s vision for the tourism sector extends beyond wildlife. She has actively encouraged collaboration among agencies under her ministry, many of which are preparing to launch their strategic plans to support her ambitious goal of attracting 2.5 million tourists by the end of this year—a record for the country.
As her reforms take shape, CS Miano’s work promises to transform Kenya into a premier global tourist destination while safeguarding the nation’s rich wildlife heritage for future generations.