The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has dismissed recent remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urging foreign tourists and investors to avoid Kenya, warning that such statements threaten jobs and economic growth.
In a statement signed by Principal Secretary Amb. Prof. Julius K. Bitok on July 20, 2026, the State Department for Tourism termed the remarks “unfortunate and irresponsible” and said they undermine national efforts to grow the sector.
“The consequences of diminished visitor confidence are borne not by political actors alone, but by ordinary Kenyans whose businesses, jobs, and incomes depend on a thriving tourism sector,” Bitok said.
The ministry noted that tourism remains a key pillar of Kenya’s economy, contributing close to 10 per cent of GDP.
How many jobs does Kenya’s tourism sector create?
According to the statement, the sector injected approximately KSh 1.7 trillion into the economy last year and supports nearly 2 million jobs directly and indirectly across hospitality, transport, tour operations and conservation.
Kenya received approximately 2.7 million international visitors last year and is “firmly on course to achieve the target of five million international arrivals by 2028,” the PS added. He attributed the growth to branding, marketing and destination promotion initiatives by government and industry stakeholders.
Bitok cautioned that the global tourism industry is “highly competitive and extremely sensitive to perceptions of safety and stability,” and that alarmist statements can damage a reputation built over years.
“Protecting Kenya’s image as a preferred destination is a shared national responsibility that transcends political affiliation,” he said, appealing to leaders to keep tourism out of political contestation.
The ministry urged leaders with genuine concerns to raise them responsibly and focus on solutions rather than statements that “inflict damage on one of Kenya’s critical economic sectors.”
The government further reaffirmed its commitment to work with local and international stakeholders to ensure visitors have a “safe, secure, and memorable experience,” and encouraged tourists and investors to continue choosing Kenya “with confidence as a destination for leisure, business, investment, and adventure.”
