EDITORIAL: Tourism must not be a political casualty

Calls by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for tourists to boycott Kenya over insecurity are deeply worrying and ill-advised.

While concerns about insecurity are genuine and deserve urgent attention, a tourism boycott is not the answer. It risks hurting ordinary Kenyans far more than it would hurt the government.

Tourism is a lifeline for millions of Kenyans, supporting formal and informal employment across hotels, transport, restaurants, tour operations, handicrafts and countless small businesses.

Last year the sector welcomed about 7.9 million visitors, comprising 2.7 million international arrivals and 5.2 million domestic travellers, generating about Sh500 billion in earnings.

Kenya should remember the devastating impact of Covid-19, when the collapse of international travel paralysed tourism and livelihoods. Recovery has taken years, and the country cannot afford another self-inflicted setback.

Leaders must therefore exercise responsibility when addressing national challenges. Political disagreements should not translate into calls that undermine the economy and livelihoods of citizens.

At the same time, the government cannot dismiss genuine security concerns. It must act decisively to restore public confidence, protect citizens and visitors and ensure that Kenya remains a safe and attractive destination.

Tourism should unite us, not become a casualty of a political contest.