The Cabinet has approved plans to review and strengthen Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) System in a move aimed at enhancing the country’s competitiveness as a tourist destination.

The Executive Office of the President stated that the update responds to stakeholder concerns and the increasing influx of tourist arrivals.

"TO FURTHER enhance Kenya's competitiveness, Cabinet sanctioned a review and strengthening of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System, in response to various concerns from stakeholders and to accommodate the increasing number of tourist arrivals," the Executive Office of the President stated. 

This development comes as Kenya anticipates hosting at least 2.5 million tourists in 2024, a significant rise from 2.09 million in 2023.

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The upward trend builds on a 35.4 per cent increase in visitor numbers recorded in 2023 compared to 2022, setting the stage for a projected 1 million additional arrivals over two years.

The government's drive to improve the ETA System aligns with its ambitious goal of attracting 5 million tourists annually by 2027.

The introduction of Visa-Free entry policies has been a game-changer, positioning Kenya as a destination of choice for international travellers.

"AFFIRMING KENYA'S growing appeal as a destination of choice for foreign tourists, the meeting noted that, driven by the nation's groundbreaking introduction of Visa-Free entry, Kenya is on track to meet its ambitious target of welcoming 5 million tourists by 2027,"  the Executive Office noted.

In addition to bolstering tourism, Kenya is enhancing its regional influence with the planned establishment of the Global Centre on Adaptation’s (GCA) regional office in Nairobi.

The office will manage climate adaptation initiatives across Africa and strengthen existing partnerships, including a collaboration with the University of Nairobi to advance investment in climate-resilient infrastructure.

Kenya’s focus on refining its travel systems and addressing climate resilience demonstrates a balanced approach to fostering economic growth while reinforcing its global standing as an attractive and sustainable destination.