The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has rolled out a nationwide mapping exercise aimed at identifying and documenting unique tourist attractions across the country, in a strategic move to diversify Kenya’s tourism portfolio.
The initiative seeks to shift focus from traditional tourism mainstays such as wildlife safaris and coastal beaches to lesser-known cultural, historical, and geographical experiences found across all 47 counties.
Speaking during a courtesy call at the County Commissioner’s office in Busia, Deputy County Commissioner Leo Stanley Amimo welcomed the programme, noting that the county is endowed with numerous attractions that remain largely untapped.
“Busia holds immense potential owing to its rich cultural heritage and strategic location, which can significantly contribute to tourism growth if properly harnessed,” he said.
Director of Tourism Inviolata Ndubi underscored the uniqueness of Busia’s tourism offerings, citing rock art sites, biodiverse wetlands, and cultural shrines that already draw international visitors.
“These attractions not only have the potential to generate revenue but also to economically empower local communities,” Ndubi noted.
Officials from the State Department of Tourism indicated that the exercise will go beyond identifying tourist sites to include an assessment of critical infrastructure required to support tourism.
Ishmael Chelang, a senior official in the department, said the mapping will evaluate accessibility factors such as road networks, signage, and availability of basic amenities.
He also raised concern over congestion in Busia Town, urging county authorities to address the challenge of commercial trucks obstructing access routes by establishing designated parking areas.
Busia County Secretary Oscar Juma revealed that the county has already initiated Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping of hotels and key attractions. He challenged stakeholders to identify and develop at least three flagship tourism projects that can elevate Busia’s status as a competitive destination.
“We are committed to working closely with the national government and development partners to position Busia as a leading tourism hub,” Juma said.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Tourism, Paul Olunga Ekwenye, pledged the county’s full support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts in unlocking the sector’s potential.
Meanwhile, Betty Ingwe of the Kenya Tourism Board stressed that destinations must meet key standards to be market-ready, including adequate social amenities, proper signage, and ease of access.
Stakeholders drawn from all eight sub-counties welcomed the initiative, observing that Busia offers a wide range of tourism experiences that, if well-packaged and marketed, could attract both domestic and international visitors.
The mapping exercise forms part of the government’s broader strategy to boost tourism arrivals, with Kenya targeting 5 million international visitors by 2027, up from the current 2.4 million.
