The past year has been a resilient recovery for Kenya as tourism saw a contribution of nearly KES 1 trillion (USD 7.7 billion) to the East African country’s national economy last year.

According to WTTC’s latest data, tourism sector jobs grew by 6 pc to reach a record 1.55 million, accounting for one in 13 jobs across the country.

While domestic visitor spending reached more than KES 466 billion last year, almost 15 pc over the previous peak and setting a new record, spending by overseas visitors continued to trail the highpoint of 1999 to reach just KES 266 billion or USD 2 billion.

Julia Simpson

“The recovery of Kenya’s travel and tourism sector is a testament to its resilience. Achieving record-breaking growth across economic contribution, jobs, and domestic visitor spending highlights the sector’s vital role in the nation’s economy,” says Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO.

“Although international visitor spending is currently lagging behind its high point, the future of travel and tourism in Kenya looks strong, with substantial opportunities for growth and development over the next decade,” Simpson adds.

According to the global tourism body’s latest research, tourism’s contribution to Kenya’s economy is forecast to grow 9 pc year-on-year to reach almost KES 1.15 trillion this year.

Jobs supported by the sector are projected to reach more than 1.6 million, representing almost 8 pc of jobs in Kenya, says WTTC.

It adds that domestic visitor spending is expected to continue driving the sector to reach KES 521 billion, but spending by travellers from overseas is forecast to remain below the previous high to reach KES 289.5 billion.

WTTC forecasts that the sector could grow its annual GDP contribution to KES 1.7 trillion by 2034, representing 7.4 pc of Kenya’s economy, and could potentially employ more than 2.2 million people across the country.