Counties could net additional revenue from tourism by establishing a calendar of key annual events which will attract more visitors.
According to Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano the devolved units need to prioritize timely calendarization of key cultural and sporting events in order to attract both local and international visitirs.
“When we firm up events well in advance, we give the tourism sector the much-needed lead time to market destinations effectively. Events such as the Camel Derby, cultural festivals, and other regional showcases have consistently boosted visitation and spotlighted the unique heritage of our counties,” said Miano during this year’s Maralal International Camel Derby in Maralal, Samburu County.
She said such events and festivals have been instrumental in pushing visitation to different regions of the country by enhancing their visibility, strengthening cultural pride, and creating opportunities for local communities.
“By strategically positioning events like the Camel Derby on the tourism calendar, we not only enhance visibility but also ensure our counties benefit from increased tourist flows. The government is fully committed to promoting such events as they are proven catalysts for tourism growth,” Miano added.
Among key annual events which the ministry has marketed and are now receiving international recognition include the Maa cultural festival, Lamu cultural festival and Tobongu’lore festivals.
In 2024, Kenya’s international arrivals rose by 15pc to reach 2.4 million from 2.1 million posted a year earlier.
