Kenya Targets $7.7 Billion Tourism Boost Through AfCFTA by 2027
Kenya Targets $7.7 Billion Tourism Boost Through AfCFTA by 2027
“Tourism is a critical anchor of Kenya’s economy and a pillar of our Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda… We must capitalize on AfCFTA opportunities,” Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, speaking at the 15th Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE).
The government is backing this vision with major infrastructure projects like the Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway, Lamu Port, and SGR expansion, alongside efforts to diversify into niche markets such as astro-tourism, desert safaris in Chalbi, and tech-tourism.
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the sector is projected to hit $9.2 billion—over 7% of GDP—and support 1.7 million jobs by 2025.
Tourism CS Rebecca Miano stressed the expo’s role in attracting investment, while AfCFTA’s Emily Mburu highlighted tourism as a “practical example of the agreement at work.”
With Africa already accounting for 40.8% of Kenya’s international arrivals in 2024, the focus on regional partnerships is timely. The MKTE has drawn 6,500 delegates from 40 countries, including 200 international buyers, and is using digital tools to enhance B2B connections.
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