Mumias East Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Salasya has outlined what he believes Kenya must do to position itself as one of Africa’s leading global tourism destinations.

Taking to his official X account on Sunday, May 10, 2026, Salasya argued that the country already possesses enormous untapped potential.

The first-time Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) MP said Kenya can transform its economy through strategic investment in tourism infrastructure, transport, cultural branding, and public spaces.

“If Kenya keeps improving infrastructure, transport, safety, branding, and investment in tourism spaces, it absolutely can grow into one of Africa’s top global destinations,” Salasya stated.

He went ahead to paint a picture of a modern tourism economy built around upgraded coastal cities, improved connectivity, and stronger international marketing of Kenyan culture.

Tourism investment ideas

Among the ideas he highlighted were modern waterfront developments in Mombasa, eco-luxury tourism projects around Diani Beach, major cultural festivals in Nairobi, improved rail and airport links connecting parks and beaches, and stronger global promotion of Kenyan music, fashion, food, and history.

According to Salasya, tourism can become a major economic driver if Kenya creates experiences that international visitors feel compelled to witness at least once in their lifetime.

“Imagine: modern waterfront developments in Mombasa, eco-luxury tourism around Diani Beach, cultural festivals in Nairobi, better rail and airport links to parks and beaches, stronger promotion of Kenyan music, fashion, food, and history worldwide,” Salasya wrote on X.

The legislator further argued that successful tourism industries are built not only on natural attractions but also on infrastructure, branding, safety, and national confidence.

He added that Kenya already possesses the natural beauty, wildlife, coastline, and cultural diversity required to compete globally.

Moreover, Salasya suggested that transforming Kenya into a premier global destination would require a generation of leaders and citizens committed to building the country’s image and tourism products on a larger scale.

“Tourism changes economies when visitors feel they must experience a place at least once in their life. Kenya already has that potential. Sometimes all it takes is a generation of people who truly believe in building it bigger,” he stated.

His remarks reflect growing conversations around the role of tourism in job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and economic diversification.

Kenya’s tourism sector

Kenya remains one of Africa’s most recognised tourism destinations, known for attractions such as the Maasai Mara National Reserve, coastal beaches, wildlife safaris, and cultural heritage.

The sector is a key contributor to the country’s economy, supporting employment in hospitality, transport, entertainment, and conservation.

In recent years, the government and private sector have increased efforts to market Kenya internationally while expanding infrastructure around tourism hubs.