Deputy President Kithure Kindiki officially opened the 15th edition of the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.
The international tourism showcase has drawn delegates from more than 40 countries.
Welcoming guests to what he described as a “marketplace of ideas and a meeting point for cultures,” Kindiki said the expo confirmed Kenya’s place as a trusted and dynamic player in the global tourism industry.
“Tourism is a critical anchor of Kenya’s economy and a pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” he stated.
Figures from the sector continue to show strong growth. In 2024, Kenya hosted 2.4 million visitors, marking a 15 per cent rise from 2023, while revenue grew by 20 per cent to Ksh452 billion.
An image captures banners and graphics advertising 2025’s Magical expo in Nairobi. Photo: Kennedy Kaburu. Source: Facebook
According to projections by the World Travel and Tourism Council, the industry is expected to contribute Ksh1.2 trillion to the economy in 2025, supporting at least 1.7 million jobs.
“These figures translate into jobs for our youth, markets for our farmers, and sustained customers for our small businesses,” the Deputy President noted.
He pointed to major infrastructure projects such as the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Highway, the Mteza Bridge, and the Dongo Kundu Bypass as evidence of Government investment in enabling tourism to thrive.
“Our strides in transport, energy, and digital connectivity are designed to make Kenya more accessible and competitive,” he explained.
Attendees arrive at Magical Kenya Expose launch in Nairobi. Photo: Kennedy Raburu Source: Facebook
Kindiki also praised new innovations in the industry, highlighting emerging products like astro-tourism, desert expeditions, cruise tourism, and tech-driven travel experiences.
“Over and above the Kenya of the Big 5 is the Kenya of Eliud Kipchoge, the Kenya of Wangari Maathai, and the Kenya of innovation,” he told delegates.
On sustainability, the Deputy President reiterated Kenya’s commitment to protecting wildlife and cultural heritage while ensuring communities benefit directly from tourism. “We must remain determined to protect the treasures that attract the world to our shores,” he said.
He closed the ceremony by officially declaring the expo open, calling on the world to experience Kenya’s diversity. “Let tourism be the bridge between Kenya, Africa and the world,” Kindiki affirmed.