Nairobi played host to the opening of the 15th Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) at Uhuru Gardens on Thursday, October 2, 2025, with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife positioning the event as a milestone for the country’s growing tourism sector.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano officially opened the expo, describing it as a defining moment for Kenya’s tourism leadership.
“This year’s expo is a landmark occasion and one that reaffirms Kenya’s position in Africa’s tourism marketplace,” she said.
The three-day event has attracted more than 6,500 delegates from 40 countries, over 400 exhibitors and 5,000 travel professionals.
Organisers confirmed that more than 10,000 business meetings have been scheduled, cementing the expo as a key platform for deal-making and investment.
A new feature this year is the Africa Tourism Investment Forum, which is being held alongside the expo. The forum is designed to link investors, policymakers and entrepreneurs in a bid to improve access to affordable capital.
“This strategic development addresses the most persistent challenge facing African tourism enterprises, that is access to affordable capital,” Ms Miano said.
DP Kithure Kindiki together with Tourism CS Rebecca Miano in Nairobi. Photo: Kenya Airways Source: Facebook
Kenya is targeting 5.5 million international visitors by 2027, building on a strong rebound in arrivals last year. \
To meet this goal, the government is expanding airports, improving road networks, boosting security and making travel processes smoother.
Sustainability remains at the heart of the country’s tourism agenda. “We are focused on reducing tourism’s carbon footprint while enhancing visitor experiences.
Today’s travellers are making choices based on a destination’s environmental and social stewardship,” the Cabinet Secretary added.
The expo also celebrates Kenya’s cultural and creative industries, with film, music and art showcased as part of the country’s tourism story. Delegates were encouraged to sample Kenya’s wildlife, pristine beaches and renowned hospitality.