Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has reaffirmed Kenya’s position as Africa’s premier tourism and investment hub.

CS Miano emphasized that the expo is more than a marketplace—it is a strategic driver of Kenya’s economic transformation and a platform to reimagine African tourism. She outlined a vision that links tourism not only to foreign visitor numbers but also to job creation, investment, cultural promotion, and sustainable development.

“This expo embodies Kenya’s ambition to position tourism at the heart of our national growth agenda,” she said. “We are leveraging this platform to attract investment, showcase our creative industries, and demonstrate to the world that Kenya is open, ready, and capable of delivering world-class experiences.”

This year’s expo has attracted a record-breaking 6,500 delegates from 40 countries, underscoring the sector’s rebound and the confidence global partners are placing in Kenya. A key milestone of the 2025 edition is the launch of the Africa Tourism Investment Forum, which CS Miano described as a groundbreaking step in channeling capital into tourism and hospitality ventures across the continent.

The Cabinet Secretary further highlighted the integration of creative industries—film, music, and cultural showcases—into Kenya’s tourism offering. She stressed that tourism is no longer just about wildlife safaris and beaches but about immersive, authentic journeys that celebrate Africa’s identity while creating opportunities for local communities.

Looking ahead, Kenya has set an ambitious target of attracting 5.5 million international visitors by 2027. CS Miano noted that achieving this will require robust infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and innovative marketing campaigns that position Kenya as a destination of choice for diverse travelers.

Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, who presided the opening ceremony praised the exponential growth of MKTE, saying it reflects global confidence in Kenya’s trajectory. He encouraged delegates to experience Kenya’s hospitality first-hand, from its iconic wildlife to its pristine coasts and vibrant urban culture.

Now in its 15th year, the Magical Kenya Travel Expo has evolved into Africa’s leading tourism trade platform. Under CS Miano’s stewardship, this year’s edition has placed investment, culture, and sustainability at the center of Kenya’s tourism narrative—signaling a bold new chapter for the sector.