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Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Rebecca Miano EGH, is a powerhouse of experience and leadership, having dedicated close to three decades to public and private service. Since assuming her role in June 2024, CS Miano has reinvigorated the tourism and wildlife sector, achieving remarkable milestones that have significantly boosted the Kenyan economy and inspired confidence in her visionary leadership.
One of CS Miano’s notable achievements includes the transformation of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) through digitalization, which resulted in a 43% increase in revenue—from Ksh 5.3 billion in 2023 to Ksh 7.6 billion in 2024. This success was achieved by leveraging the e-Citizen payment system, showcasing the ministry’s commitment to financial transparency and innovation.
In her first six months, the tourism sector reported over KSh 142.5 billion in revenue and welcomed more than one million visitors. These figures underscore her ability to deliver tangible results in record time. Among her initiatives was the launch of the KWS Strategic Plan 2024-2028 and the Wildlife Research and Training Institute Strategic Plan 2023-2027, which set clear frameworks for conservation, research, and training in Kenya.
Key Initiatives and Milestones
- Market Diversification: CS Miano introduced nine regional tourism circuits to attract domestic and international tourists, creating tailored experiences across Kenya’s diverse landscapes.
- Transit and Long Connection Travellers ETA: This initiative allows transit passengers to explore Kenya during extended layovers, offering a unique opportunity to boost tourism.
- Digital Nomad Work Permits: Designed to attract global remote workers, this program positions Kenya as an attractive hub for digital professionals and their families.
- Wildlife Conservation Efforts:
- CS Miano has actively supported scientists working to save the endangered northern white rhino through in-vitro fertilization.
- She oversaw the relocation of 50 elephants from Mwea National Reserve to Aberdare National Park to manage overpopulation and ensure ecological balance.
- Tourist Security: Signing an MOU with the Ministry of Interior strengthened safety measures for tourists, enhancing Kenya’s reputation as a secure travel destination.
- Wildlife Research Permitting Portal: The online platform facilitates seamless access for researchers, reflecting her focus on innovation and efficiency.
Strengthening Kenya’s Global Position
CS Miano’s commitment to sustainable tourism extends beyond Kenya’s borders. Her strategic initiatives, such as the introduction of the wildlife research permitting portal and efforts to boost tourism circuits, have cemented Kenya’s status as a global tourism and conservation leader.
Her previous success as the CS for Investment, Trade, and Industry demonstrates her broad vision. CS Miano was instrumental in the Kenya-European Union Economic Partnership Agreement, which ensured duty-free and quota-free access to Kenyan exports in the EU market. This historic agreement has opened doors for Kenyan farmers, manufacturers, and traders while positioning Kenya as a hub for regional and international trade.
A Legacy of Transformation
Rebecca Miano’s achievements reflect her hands-on approach and dedication to service delivery. She has not only revitalized the tourism and wildlife sector but also laid a foundation for sustainable growth. Her visionary leadership ensures that Kenya’s natural heritage and economic opportunities continue to thrive for generations.
As President William Ruto acknowledged in his State of the Nation address, CS Miano’s contributions are driving Kenya’s transformation into a global tourism powerhouse, cementing her legacy as one of the most impactful public servants in the nation’s history.
