The State Department for Tourism has dismissed remarks urging foreign tourists and investors to avoid Kenya, saying the statements are irresponsible and risk undermining the country’s tourism sector and economy.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 20, Principal Secretary for Tourism Amb. Prof. Julius Bitok said the government had noted with concern recent remarks advising foreigners against visiting Kenya over alleged insecurity.
“The State Department for Tourism has noted with concern recent remarks urging foreign tourists and investors to avoid visiting Kenya on account of alleged incidents of insecurity in the country,” the statement said.
Bitok said the remarks are unfortunate, irresponsible and undermine government’s efforts, alongside stakeholders across the tourism value chain, to strengthen the sector through branding, marketing and destination promotion initiatives.
He noted that Kenya received about 2.7 million international visitors last year and remains on course to achieve its target of five million international arrivals by 2028.
The PS said tourism remains a key pillar of the economy, contributing nearly 10 per cent of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and generating about KSh1.7 trillion last year.
According to the statement, the sector also supports nearly two million jobs directly and indirectly across hospitality, transport, tour operations, cultural enterprises and conservation initiatives.
Bitok warned that statements that erode confidence in Kenya as a destination threaten the livelihoods of millions of Kenyans who depend on the industry.
He said the global tourism industry is highly competitive and sensitive to perceptions of safety and stability, adding that alarmist or unverified statements can quickly damage a reputation built over many years.
The PS said Kenya has worked to position itself as a leading tourism destination known for its wildlife, landscapes, culture and hospitality, and urged leaders to avoid actions that could harm the country’s image.
“We therefore appeal to all leaders to appreciate the strategic and non-partisan value of the tourism industry. Tourism should remain insulated from political contestation and the turbulence of political seasons,” he said.
Bitok urged leaders with concerns about the sector to raise them responsibly and in a manner that protects national interests, saying public discourse should strengthen institutions and encourage solutions rather than damage one of the country’s critical economic sectors.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with local and international tourism stakeholders to ensure Kenya continues to offer visitors a safe, secure and memorable experience.
The PS also encouraged tourists and investors to continue choosing Kenya with confidence for leisure, business, investment and adventure.
The statement follows remarks by Gachagua during a church service in Kirinyaga County on Sunday, where he urged tourists and foreign investors to postpone visits to Kenya until next year, claiming the country was experiencing insecurity due to the presence of “goons” operating with impunity saying that visitors and investors should wait until the security situation improves.
