Kenya is stepping up efforts to unlock the potential of the Australian travel market as part of a strategic push to boost international arrivals.
Speaking during a high-level engagement with tourism stakeholders and media in Melbourne, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Rebecca Miano, underscored the immense growth opportunities in the Australian market and highlighted the longstanding historical ties between the two nations.
“Australia has always been a valued tourism partner for Kenya, and we are eager to re-engage with Australian travellers, making up for lost time during the Covid-19 pandemic. With our unparalleled wildlife, breathtaking beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Kenya is ready to deliver the unforgettable and authentic experiences that Australian travellers seek,” CS Miano stated.
In 2024, Kenya welcomed 27,396 Australian visitors, a number the CS is optimistic will significantly increase as the country strengthens its tourism links with Australia.
As part of her visit to key Australian cities, CS Miano will hold discussions with leading tour operators, and interact with the Kenyan diaspora community. She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to showcasing Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings, tapping into Australia’s growing appetite for travel experiences that encompass culture, cuisine, wellness, wildlife, and adventure.
“We want to captivate the Australian market with the magic that is Kenya. Whether travelers seek adventure, relaxation, or meaningful cultural connections, Kenya has something special to offer. Our discussions with tour operators will focus on making travel to Kenya seamless and irresistible for Australians,” she added.
The Kenyan diaspora remains a crucial pillar of the country’s tourism agenda, and the CS’s engagements in Australia align with the “Ziara Kenya: One Diaspora, One Tourist” campaign. This initiative seeks to rally the diaspora community to serve as ambassadors for Kenyan tourism, encouraging more Australians to visit.
Australia ranks 6th globally in international tourism expenditure, with Australians spending over USD 41.4 billion annually on outbound trips — a market Kenya is keen to tap into.
CS Miano also took the opportunity to commend the Kenya 7s rugby team for their recent participation in the Perth 7s tournament, noting the event’s role in enhancing Kenya’s visibility on the global stage and boosting the country’s growing sports tourism sector.
“As we continue to market Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings, sports tourism will remain a key focus. The electrifying reception and appeal of our Kenya 7s team at the Perth 7s showcased our country’s sporting excellence while also serving as a powerful platform to drive interest in Kenya as a travel destination. Such impactful showcases by our sports ambassadors help place Kenya on the global map, inspiring tourism growth,” she remarked.
With renewed focus and strategic partnerships, Kenya is positioning itself as a top destination for Australian travellers, promising a vibrant mix of adventure, heritage, and world-class hospitality.
