CBK gives positive outlook for tourism sector as arrivals surge by 8.7%
By Sharon Atieno, June 10, 2026CBK Governor Kamau Thugge has said Kenya’s tourism sector remains resilient, with tourist arrivals growing by 8.7 per cent in the 12 months to March 2024, supported by government efforts to diversify source markets and boost conferencing, business and holiday tourism.
“Tourist arrivals have remained resilient, growing by 8.7 per cent in the 12 months to March 2024, on account of government initiatives to diversify source markets, and measures to increase conferencing, business and holiday tourism in the country,” Thugge said.
Thugge said the performance demonstrates resilience in the tourism industry, supported by government efforts to diversify source markets and strengthen conferencing, business and holiday tourism segments.
Speaking during the release of the latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, Thugge noted that Kenya’s tourism sector has continued on an upward trajectory, with visitor numbers rising steadily compared to previous years.
Steady growth in arrivals
According to the data, tourist arrivals grew from lower post-pandemic levels to higher recovery figures, reaching an estimated 2.9 million visitors in recent periods, compared to about 2.5 million earlier.
The 8.7 per cent growth over the 12-month period ending March 2024 signals continued strengthening of Kenya’s services exports, a key component of the broader economy.
Government measures boost recovery
Thugge attributed the growth to targeted government interventions aimed at positioning Kenya as a leading tourism and conferencing destination in the region.
He pointed to expanded marketing in new source markets and improved infrastructure for both business and leisure travel as key drivers behind the improved performance.
“The tourism sector continues to benefit from diversification of source markets and measures to boost conferencing, business and holiday tourism,” he said.
Services exports remain a key pillar
The CBK governor emphasised that tourism remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s services exports, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and supporting overall economic stability.
He noted that sustained growth in arrivals strengthens the country’s external position and supports broader macroeconomic resilience.
Positive outlook ahead
The sector is expected to maintain its positive momentum in the coming years, with projections showing continued growth in arrivals as Kenya consolidates its position as a regional tourism hub.
Thugge said the steady recovery reflects confidence in Kenya’s tourism offering, even as global economic conditions remain uncertain.