Editor's Review

In terms of countries of origin, most tourists came from the US followed by Uganda and Tanzania.

The government has reported increased tourism earnings following the implementation of the visa free policy in January 2024.

In a statement dated Tuesday, February 25, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura noted that the 2024 inbound tourism earnings were Ksh452.2 billion.

He added that the earnings grew by 19.79 per cent in comparison with earnings recorded in 2023.

"In 2024, Kenya welcomed 7.5 million tourists both international and domestic. This translated to a 14.6% growth," read the statement in part.

File image of President William Ruto and government officials welcoming tourists in Mombasa.

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"Meanwhile, in 2024 Kenya recorded 5.1 million domestic bed occupancy up from 4.6 million in 2023 marking a 12% spike. Noted that, this did not capture bed occupancy in unregistered accommodation facilities and home-stays which are estimated to account for 10% of the bed occupancy. Combined bed occupancy grew by 16% from 8.6 million in 2023 to 10 million in 2024."

In terms of countries of origin, most tourists came from the US followed by Uganda and Tanzania.

"The United States remained our largest source market accounting for 12.8% of the total arrivals, followed by Uganda (9.42%) and Tanzania (8.49%) and the United Kingdom (7.5%). Also, India (5.5%), Italy (3.8%), China (3.8%), Germany (3.7%) among other foreign nations visited our country," Mwaura added.

Apart from leisure, tourists also came to attend conferences, business meetings and visiting friends and family.

The visa free policy was introduced by President William Ruto in 2024.

At the time, Ruto explained that the move would boost tourism for the country.