Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has praised the strengthened partnership between the government and private sector, saying it continues to play a pivotal role in positioning Kenya as a premium global tourism destination.
Speaking at the ongoing Jamhuri Tourism Week at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Miano said the collaborative approach has already delivered tangible results, including increased international arrivals and higher tourism revenue.
She highlighted the surge in international flight frequencies to Kenya this year as a clear indicator of rising global interest.
“Several international airlines have increased their frequencies. This shows that our partnership is working. We have also witnessed the opening of new hotels across the country. Through such collaborations, we will elevate Kenya’s brand to global standards, and I thank the private sector for this cordial relationship,” she said.
Miano added that engagement with private-sector stakeholders enabled the government to review and streamline the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) system, making travel to Kenya significantly easier.
Earlier this year, Kenya scrapped visa requirements for all African and most Caribbean countries—exempting eligible travelers from ETA applications, lengthy forms, and visa fees. Visitors from these regions can now enter the country without prior authorization.
She also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Open Skies Policy, noting that the initiative is being developed with active participation from industry players to further simplify access to Kenya.
Miano encouraged private sector partners to use the Tourism Week platform to present additional proposals ahead of expected announcements by President William Ruto during the Jamhuri Day celebrations.
“We urge the private sector to take advantage of this week. Let us have more suggestions on the table so we can present them to the President, who is expected to make major announcements for the sector,” she said.
