The State Department for Tourism has criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s remarks urging foreign tourists and investors to avoid the country over security concerns.
In a statement dated July 20 2026, Tourism Principal Secretary Julius Bitok stated that the remarks were unfortunate and irresponsible.
“The State Department for Tourism has noted with concern recent remarks urging foreign tourists and investors to avoid visiting Kenya on account of alleged incidents of insecurity in the country. These remarks are unfortunate and irresponsible. They undermine the concerted efforts by the Government and stakeholders across the tourism value chain, to strengthen our tourism sector through carefully designed branding, marketing, and destination promotion initiatives,” read part of the statement.
Government Defends Kenya’s Tourism Image and Growth Targets
In its statement, the State Department for Tourism said Kenya’s tourism sector has continued to recover and expand through deliberate efforts to market the country as a preferred global destination.
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Bitok revealed that Kenya welcomed approximately 2.7 million international visitors in the previous year and is working towards achieving five million international tourist arrivals by 2028.
The government said tourism remains a major contributor to the economy, supporting businesses and workers across various sectors including hospitality, transport, tour operations, cultural enterprises and conservation.
He also revealed the tourism sector contributes close to 10% of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and injected approximately KSh1.7 trillion into the economy last year.
It also supports nearly two million jobs, both directly and indirectly, with thousands of Kenyans relying on tourism-related activities for income.
The government warned that negative statements about Kenya’s security situation could affect visitor confidence, which is a key factor in the highly competitive global tourism market.
The department said Kenya has invested heavily in building its reputation internationally through its wildlife, landscapes, cultural experiences and hospitality industry.
“Any action or statement that unnecessarily erodes confidence in Kenya as a safe and attractive destination places these livelihoods and economic gains at risk. The global tourism industry is highly competitive and extremely sensitive to perceptions of safety and stability. Alarmist or unverified statements can quickly destroy credibility and reputation that has taken years to build. Kenya has worked diligently to position itself as a premier tourism destination renowned for its unique wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture and world-class hospitality,” the statement noted.
The department said Kenya has invested heavily in building its reputation internationally through its wildlife, landscapes, cultural experiences and hospitality industry.
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Gachagua’s Remarks Spark Government Response
The government’s response followed comments by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua advising foreign tourists and investors to reconsider coming to Kenya because of security concerns.
Gachagua argued that insecurity had affected the country’s reputation and urged visitors to keep away until the situation improved.
The Tourism State Department said the tourism sector should not be used as a political battleground, warning that negative perceptions could affect ordinary Kenyans working in the industry.
The government emphasized that concerns about security and other national issues should be addressed through constructive engagement rather than messages that could discourage international visitors and investors.
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