Naivasha: Naivasha’s ambition to become a premier tourism resort city is edging closer to reality, backed by billions of shillings in investment in hotel and conference facilities and a surge in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) activities. Chairman of the Nakuru Tourism Association, Elijah Mwangi, highlighted the town’s growth, noting its capability to host domestic, regional, and international events.
According to Kenya News Agency, Naivasha has gained international recognition by hosting the World Safari Rally Championship and other significant events, providing it with a competitive advantage in the tourism industry. Mwangi, speaking at a Kenya Utalii College refresher course graduation ceremony, emphasized the town’s appeal due to improved road infrastructure, favourable weather, scenic Lake Naivasha, and the welcoming nature of its residents.
The area’s thriving horticulture sector and fishing activities on Lake Naivasha have contributed to the growth of agri-tourism, diversifying the town’s business and tourism offerings. Mwangi noted that the rise in domestic tourism has protected the industry from international disruptions, such as the Middle East crisis, aiding Kenya’s goal to attract 5.5 million tourists by 2027.
The Tourism Sector Performance Report 2025 revealed a nine per cent increase in international arrivals, reaching 2.7 million, with a total of 7.9 million tourists visiting Kenya in the year. The sector generated Sh500 billion in revenue in 2025, marking a ten per cent increase from 2024. The MICE segment is a growing pillar, with business events generating Sh120 billion in 2024, aiming for Sh200 billion by 2027.
Mwangi praised devolution for enhancing the marketing of tourism sites nationwide, benefiting counties financially. He urged for increased reinvestment of tourism levy funds into Nakuru County due to its substantial sector contributions.
Kenya Utalii College CEO Mark Ogendi, at the graduation of over 200 industry workers, stated that the refresher programme seeks to improve customer experience and service delivery standards. The college plans to collaborate with county governments to bolster human resource capacity, focusing on training for both local and international roles.
