Rebecca Miano, CS for Tourism and Wildlife
Kenya has been elected to the Executive Council of UN Tourism, marking a major milestone for the country’s fast-growing tourism sector and positioning it at the centre of global tourism leadership.
The election, widely celebrated across the industry, places Kenya among a select group of nations tasked with shaping global tourism policies, narratives, and partnerships. Tourism experts say the move gives Kenya unmatched international visibility at a time when the global travel landscape is undergoing rapid transformation.
For decades, Kenya has been known worldwide for its rich wildlife, diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and innovative tourism enterprises. But the new position at UN Tourism, observers note, elevates the country into a new league—one that signals international confidence in Kenya’s leadership and long-term tourism vision.
According to officials, Kenya will now be in a stronger position to market itself globally, leveraging every forum, discussion, and initiative within the Executive Council to spotlight the country as a top-tier destination for adventure, sustainability, investment, and cultural experiences. Industry players describe this influence as “visibility money cannot buy,” particularly in an increasingly competitive global market.
Kenya is expected to use the platform to champion issues that have long defined its tourism philosophy: sustainability, conservation, community empowerment, and equitable growth. The country has often been cited as a leading example of how tourism can coexist with strong ecosystem protection and community-driven development.
As global travelers seek more meaningful and authentic experiences, Kenya aims to showcase its unique offerings from the world-renowned Maasai Mara and the rich heritage of Lamu to the creative energy of Nairobi and the serene landscapes of the Rift Valley.
Stakeholders say the achievement is both a recognition and a challenge. With the world watching, Kenya is expected to diversify its tourism products further, expand partnerships with counties and private sector players, strengthen digital innovations, and accelerate marketing campaigns that highlight the full range of its attractions. Beyond safaris, the country is aiming to position itself as a global hub for culture, sports tourism, meetings and conferences, gastronomy, eco-tourism, film, and wellness travel.
The government has described the election as a reaffirmation of Kenya’s capacity to lead the future of tourism. “This is our moment to shape conversations, push boundaries, and demonstrate that Kenya is ready for the next era of global tourism,” officials noted.
With its new seat at the UN Tourism Executive Council, Kenya steps onto the world stage with renewed confidence and an opportunity to tell its story louder and more strategically than ever before.