The government is set to review restrictions on the number of international airlines and flights allowed into Kenya in a major policy shift aimed at boosting tourism and doubling foreign visitor arrivals by 2028.
Tourism Principal Secretary Julius Bitok said the review will be undertaken jointly with relevant government agencies and the private sector to address long-standing aviation bottlenecks that have slowed the sector's growth.
Speaking during the annual symposium of the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers (KAHC) in Malindi, Bitok said the government is determined to create an enabling environment that supports tourism expansion.
"We are serious about doubling the number of tourist arrivals in Kenya by 2028. That means doing all we can to create an enabling environment, including improving the policy framework to support the industry's growth," the PS said.
He noted that the planned review will assess requests for increased air access while taking into account airport capacity, security considerations and broader national interests.
Kenya received about 2.7 million international visitors last year, well below the government's target of five million arrivals. Industry players have attributed the shortfall to restrictive aviation policies that limit the number of airlines operating into the country and cap weekly flight frequencies for others.
They also cited inadequate airport infrastructure, including short runways at airports in Malindi and Diani, as well as poor road connectivity, as factors limiting tourism growth.
KAHC chairman Christopher Musau urged the government to adopt a more flexible aviation policy, arguing that improved air connectivity would enable Kenya to compete more effectively with regional destinations, attracting larger numbers of tourists.
Bitok challenged hotel operators and other stakeholders to complement government reforms by intensifying marketing efforts and improving service delivery.
"If I convince the Government to create a more enabling aviation environment by opening up our skies, will the industry be ready to bring in more visitors?" he posed.
The PS said Kenya remains well positioned to attract visitors throughout the year because of its diverse tourism offerings, including wildlife, national parks, scenic landscapes and the country's coastal attractions.
He added that the government is also strengthening Kenya's position as a leading destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) to diversify tourism earnings.
Bitok said the ongoing modernisation of Bomas of Kenya into a world-class convention facility will significantly enhance the country's ability to host major international conferences and business events.
He urged hotels and other hospitality establishments to maintain high standards of service, saying memorable guest experiences remain one of Kenya's strongest marketing tools and are essential in encouraging repeat visits.
"Our people continue to be our most valuable asset. We must continue to invest in skills development, youth empowerment, gender inclusion and fair labour practices throughout the industry," Bitok said.
He said sustained investment in human capital would be critical in ensuring the tourism sector remains competitive and capable of achieving the government's ambitious growth targets.
