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By John Kariuki
Nairobi, December 10, 2024 – Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has launched its Strategic Plan 2023-2027 and the Youth in Tourism and Conservation Initiative, marking a transformative shift in tourism, conservation, and youth engagement.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano highlighted the initiatives as pivotal for a sustainable and inclusive tourism sector while empowering the country’s youth to lead in conservation and innovation.
The Strategic Plan, themed “Home of Human Origins” with the slogan “Karibu Nyumbani” (Welcome Home), targets attracting 5 million visitors by 2027. The Ministry aims to boost foreign exchange, generate jobs, and protect biodiversity by enhancing Kenya’s appeal as a global tourism destination.
Key measures include expanding the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, establishing a National Convention Bureau, and upgrading training institutions such as Kenya Utalii College.
The Youth in Tourism and Conservation Initiative focuses on harnessing the potential of Kenya’s youth, who form over 70% of the population. Projects include bird-watching guide training on Rusinga Island, eco-tourism ventures in Kakamega, and cultural tourism in Naivasha. The Ministry will also establish a Youth Innovation Hub in 2025 to coordinate youth-led tourism ventures.
Kenya’s tourism sector has seen robust growth, with arrivals up 35.4% and earnings rising 31.5%. The Ministry plans to build on this momentum with stronger policies and institutional frameworks.
“Kenya’s youth are the architects of our future,” said CS Miano. “This strategy ensures their active role in shaping a sustainable tourism sector.”
These initiatives underscore Kenya’s commitment to fostering resilience, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship.
