Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa believes the excitement generated by the ongoing Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) is laying the perfect foundation to position Kenya as a premier sports tourism hub ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
Since CHAN kicked off on August 3, Kenyan fans have turned out in droves to back the Harambee Stars, creating a carnival atmosphere that has spilt beyond the stadiums.
The Ministry of Sports, working with various county governments, has also established lively fan zones across the country, adding extra flavour to the continental showpiece.
But it is not only football that has thrived; the ripple effects have extended to the hospitality industry, with hotels, restaurants and tour operators recording a surge in business.
“Our hotels, restaurants and travel operators are experiencing increased numbers," Ololtuaa said. He highlighted that visitors were taking time to visit the country's national park as well as other scenic regions, which has greatly impacted tourism.
"It is gratifying to see visitors take time to explore our national parks, cultural sites and scenic regions such as Maasai Mara, Mount Kenya and Mombasa, among other destinations, after engaging with the football events," Ololtuaa said.
The Angola national team toured Nairobi National Park on August 18 after bowing out of the competition, accompanied by officials and media personnel. To build on this momentum, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) also forged a strategic partnership to harness football’s universal appeal in marketing Kenya as a vibrant, diverse and dynamic destination.
Ololtuaa described the collaboration as timely, noting that the rising regional and international spotlight on football would only grow as the Afcon edges closer.
“We are very happy because Harambee Stars have been making us proud, their performance on the pitch not only rallies huge fan support but also amplifies Kenya’s brand internationally,” said Ololtuaa.
“This partnership is opening new avenues for domestic and regional markets to discover Kenya’s rich cultural and natural attractions, which are now being showcased alongside football excitement.”
With Kenya set to host the CHAN final on August 30, another spike in visitors is expected, further cementing the nation’s status as an emerging sports tourism powerhouse. Ololtuaa urged hospitality and travel industry stakeholders to seize the moment.
“Our collective efforts in hosting visitors, promoting attractions and celebrating our national teams will strengthen Kenya’s position as a premier sports tourism destination.
