Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has lauded President William Ruto as Kenya’s most influential and effective tourism ambassador. She praised his dynamic leadership and international outreach for driving unprecedented growth in the country’s tourism industry.
In a recent televised interview, Miano commended the President’s commitment to promoting Kenya as a premier travel destination, both regionally and globally.
“President Ruto has become Kenya’s greatest tourism ambassador,” Miano stated. “His strategic leadership, international engagements, and unwavering support for local tourism development have placed Kenya firmly on the global tourism map.”
Miano highlighted that the President has taken advantage of every international platform to showcase Kenya’s rich cultural heritage. Also in biodiversity, and its position as the cradle of humankind. She cited the government’s increased investment in tourism promotion, infrastructure, and security as central to the sector’s revitalization.
According to the CS Miano, key reforms have been realized through inter-ministerial collaboration under President Ruto’s leadership. The Ministry of Transport is upgrading airports to world-class standards. The Ministry of Tourism has strengthened the Tourist Police Unit to boost safety and confidence among visitors.
Miano also acknowledged the President’s strong focus on county-level tourism. singling out Nyandarua County for special mention.
“The President’s focus on uplifting regions like Nyandarua has elevated local tourism and created new economic opportunities for our communities,” she said, describing Nyandarua—home to the Aberdare Ranges and colonial-era heritage sites—as “Kenya’s California.”
This regional tourism push ties into the Ministry’s broader strategy to promote community-based tourism. Furthermore in empowering local populations to take ownership and benefit from tourism development.
Miano further credited the Ruto administration for increasing budget allocations toward tourism infrastructure. Therefore initiating robust digital marketing campaigns targeting international markets. Also encouraging private sector investment.
Under President Ruto’s stewardship, Kenya’s tourism industry posted record revenues of KSh 450 billion in 2024. The country is now targeting 5 million international arrivals by 2027.
“From championing Kenya’s presence at global tourism expos to personally welcoming visitors, President Ruto has set a new benchmark for leadership in tourism,” Miano noted. “He is visible, vocal, and visionary.”
Miano emphasized that sustained political will, grassroots involvement, and strategic international partnerships will be critical to transforming Kenya into a global tourism powerhouse.