Nairobi: Leaders from the coastal region have assured tourists and investors that Kenya in general and the coastal region in particular is a safe destination. Tourism is the economic backbone of Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, and Lamu counties and supports local livelihoods, drives the hospitality sector, and stimulates related industries like agriculture and transport.
According to Kenya News Agency, the leaders have condemned recent statements by former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua that tourists and investors should avoid the country in the run-up to the 2027 general election. Gachagua, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader, has urged tourists and investors to stay away from Kenya, citing rising insecurity that he blamed squarely on the national government. They said the tourism sector should not remain stagnant simply because the country is hurtling towards a high-stake general election.
The leaders were speaking in Mombasa after a high-level consultative meeting to discuss the future of the Coast region and strengthen collaboration towards sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity. Led by Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Joho (Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs) and Salim Mvurya (Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports), the leaders said politicians should desist from issuing travel advisories and precautions to visitors and investors. Others present included Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Governors Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir (Mombasa), Gideon Mung’aro (Kilifi), and Issa Timamy (Lamu), along with senators and a host of MPs.
CS Joho criticized Gachagua’s remarks as reckless and an act of economic sabotage, emphasizing Kenya’s strong international reputation for its wildlife, white sandy beaches, rich culture, and hospitality. He stated that negative portrayals could discourage potential visitors. Joho expressed that such statements are detrimental to the livelihoods of millions who depend on various sectors driven by a thriving coastal economy.
He highlighted the recurring issue of individuals viewing the coastal region through a lens of exclusion and political expediency, seeking to destabilize its economy for selfish gains. Joho emphasized that coastal leaders are united in safeguarding the tourism industry to protect jobs and encourage investment. He cited recent developments like Nigerian tycoon Ali Dangote’s planned $17 billion oil refinery in Lamu as indicators of the region’s potential.
CS Mvurya pointed out that Gachagua’s remarks came at a time when local leaders were deliberating on exploiting the region’s potential in tourism and the blue economy sector for job creation and poverty eradication. Governor Nassir revealed strategies to attract tourists beyond traditional European sources, working with global airlines to facilitate direct flights to Mombasa, thus bypassing Nairobi and boosting tourism growth.
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro condemned Gachagua’s statements as irresponsible, warning that they undermine Kenya’s international reputation and threaten the livelihoods of millions reliant on the tourism sector. He reiterated that tourism is a crucial economic pillar for the coast, and any attempt to sabotage it is an attack on the economy, businesses, and families.
According to the ministry of tourism, the country recorded about 2.7 million international tourist arrivals in 2025. The national government aims for five million international arrivals by 2028, a goal that relies on maintaining global confidence in Kenya as a safe, secure, and attractive destination.
