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I hosted Dr. Fredrick Ouma Oluga, PS for the State Department for Medical Services, Ministry of Health, for a courtesy call focused on strengthening collaboration between the tourism and health sectors. Our discussions explored ways to enhance healthcare services in tourism destinations, strengthen public health preparedness, and ensure a safe and secure environment for domestic and international visitors. We emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts to protect public health, build traveller confidence, and safeguard local communities. We remain committed to strengthening cross-sector partnerships that promote safety, attract investment, support economic growth, and position Kenya as a preferred tourism destination #MagicalKenya #TembeaKenya

World-class hospitality training must be accessible across the country as we position tourism as a key driver of jobs, investment and economic growth. Today, I joined Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Hon @rebecca_miano at the Ronald Ngala Campus of Kenya Utalii College in Vipingo, Kilifi County, as the institution welcomed its pioneer cohort of students. More than two decades after it was first conceived, the campus is now a reality, with capacity to train over 1,000 students annually in hospitality, culinary arts, maritime tourism and coastal eco-tourism. The Ronald Ngala Campus will strengthen the Coast as a leading hub for hospitality excellence and tourism innovation while equipping our young people with the skills needed to compete globally. To the pioneer cohort, you are the first custodians of this vision. Set the standard high and carry the legacy forward

We are committed to harnessing the power of sport to unite communities, nurture talent and create opportunities for our young people to excel. I officially opened the friendly match between Great Rift FC and Gor Mahia FC at Showground Stadium in Eldoret, following an invitation by Kenya’s Ambassador to the United States, Amb. David Kerich. I was joined by Amb. David Kerich, the Gor Mahia Chairperson and club officials, alongside Great Rift FC officials led by their patron, Amb. Kerich’s son. We will continue to support initiatives that promote sports, nurture local talent and provide our young people with opportunities to pursue their dreams through football and other sporting disciplines.

We are undertaking bold legislative reforms to ensure Kenya’s tourism sector remains competitive, innovative and responsive to the changing dynamics of the global travel industry. The Tourism (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to modernise our legal and institutional framework by strengthening destination marketing, enhancing tourism investments, promoting business events (MICE), accelerating digital transformation and improving market intelligence across the sector. As part of the Government’s broader reform agenda, we are proposing measures to streamline institutions, including the merger of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and the Tourism Research Institute (TRI), as well as targeted reforms to selected Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGAs). These changes will eliminate duplication, strengthen coordination and enhance efficiency in service delivery. We remain committed to working closely with Parliament and industry stakeholders to develop a forward-looking legislative framework that unlocks new opportunities, strengthens sector governance and supports sustainable tourism growth. Earlier today, I joined Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. @rebecca_miano , before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife as we presented the Ministry’s position on the Tourism (Amendment) Bill, 2026 and outlined the reforms necessary to align our tourism sector with emerging local and global trends. If enacted, these reforms will provide a stronger foundation for growth, investment and job creation, while advancing our national ambition of attracting five million international visitors annually and firmly positioning Kenya among the world's leading tourism destinations.

Vision without action remains an aspiration. Action guided by clear goals delivers results. As we continue engaging with stakeholders across the tourism sector, our focus remains unwavering: growing tourism’s contribution to KES 1 trillion by 2028, welcoming 5 million international visitors, and achieving 7.5 million domestic bed nights. These targets are more than numbers; they represent jobs, investments, stronger communities, and a more competitive tourism destination. Together, through bold ideas, strategic partnerships, and disciplined execution, we will unlock the full potential of Kenya’s tourism sector #MagicalKenya

Last evening was more than a dinner, it marked the beginning of renewed collaboration to shape the future of Kenya’s tourism sector. I was encouraged by the candid conversations and shared commitment demonstrated by the CEOs of our tourism SAGAs and Institutions, their management teams, industry leaders, development partners, investors, and other stakeholders. As I begin my journey as PS for Tourism, I am confident that by working together, we can diversify our tourism offerings, strengthen Kenya’s global competitiveness, grow the MICE segment, increase visitor numbers, and position tourism as Kenya’s leading foreign exchange earner. I sincerely thank the Kenya Tourism Board, led by Board Chair Mr. Francis Gichaba and CEO Mrs. June Chepkemei, for bringing us together for such a memorable evening. The conversations have only just begun, and I look forward to working closely with all our stakeholders to translate our shared vision into measurable impact for the sector and for our country. Together, we will make Magical Kenya even more magical 🇰🇪

One question captured the spirit of our engagement with tourism and hospitality stakeholders at the KAHC Annual Symposium: “If I convince the Government to create a more enabling aviation environment by opening up our skies, will the industry be ready to bring in more visitors?” The resounding “Yes!” from the delegates was more than an answer, it was a commitment. That moment reaffirmed my belief that government and the private sector are aligned in our ambition to unlock Kenya’s full tourism potential. Our responsibility is to create an enabling policy environment, while the industry continues to innovate, invest, and deliver exceptional visitor experiences. Together, we have one assignment: to make Kenya the most sought-after destination for tourism, business, sports, meetings and conferences in Africa. I am confident that through collaboration, bold ideas and shared commitment, we will not only meet our targets, we will surpass them #MagicalKenya

Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with our Heads of Department to review our progress, assess ongoing programmes, and align on the priorities that will drive the growth and competitiveness of Kenya’s tourism sector. It was an open and productive engagement that gave us the opportunity to reflect on what is working well, identify the areas that need improvement, and, most importantly, find practical solutions together. I am encouraged by the commitment and dedication of our team as we continue working towards a stronger, more vibrant tourism sector that delivers for all Kenyans. Together, we will keep building a tourism industry that is innovative, competitive, and globally outstanding #MagicalKenya