Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, has urged the adoption of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to modernize Kenya’s tourism sector and strengthen its global appeal. Speaking at the University of Eldoret in Uasin Gishu County during the national celebrations for the 2026 United Nations (UN) World Tourism Day, Miano highlighted the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism” as a critical pathway for the country’s tourism development. The event, hosted by the Uasin Gishu County Government and the University of Eldoret, underscored the need for innovation to diversify Kenya’s tourism offerings and meet evolving traveler expectations.
Miano emphasized that digital platforms are reshaping how tourists plan and experience destinations, urging stakeholders to leverage technology to market Kenya’s attractions, reach new audiences, and deliver personalized services. She cited the recent launch of Safari Live, a digital initiative developed in partnership with Wild Earth, as a model for showcasing Kenya’s wildlife and cultural heritage globally. “A homestay in Uasin Gishu, a youth-led conservation project in the North Rift, or a cultural artisan in Eldoret can now reach international markets directly,” she said, highlighting the potential of digital tools to empower local communities and entrepreneurs.
The CS also called for the expansion of youth-driven tourism initiatives such as Hidden Gems, Tembea Kenya, and Tembea North Rift, which use digital content to promote regional attractions. She encouraged young Kenyans to engage as creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators, noting their growing role in promoting the country through social media. Miano pointed to AI-powered wildlife monitoring systems and smart agro-tourism applications developed by students and startups as examples of how technology can drive sustainable tourism growth. The government, she added, would continue supporting youth-led projects through the State Department for Tourism’s initiatives in tourism and conservation.
Miano stressed the importance of cultural tourism, citing Uasin Gishu’s potential in sports, agro-tourism, and cultural experiences. She urged stakeholders to digitize and package the region’s attractions to attract broader markets, noting that the North Rift’s legacy as a hub for world record holders and Olympic champions could be amplified through digital storytelling. “This region carries a story that digital tourism has barely begun to tell,” she said, advocating for collaboration between national and county governments, private sector actors, and neighboring regions to develop an integrated North Rift tourism circuit.
The CS also emphasized the role of domestic tourism in building industry resilience, urging Kenyans to explore local destinations. “Visit Uasin Gishu, visit the North Rift, and discover Kenya,” she said, framing domestic travel as a cornerstone of the sector’s sustainability. Miano linked tourism development to environmental conservation, citing activities during the tourism week, including tree-planting initiatives, as part of Kenya’s 15 billion trees program. She noted that restoring forest cover would protect biodiversity, mitigate climate change impacts, and enhance the appeal of eco-tourism destinations.
Miano’s remarks were delivered alongside key stakeholders, including Tourism Principal Secretary Prof. Julius Bitok, Uasin Gishu County Commissioner Dr. Eddyson Nyale, and Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei, among others. The event concluded with her official declaration of the 2026 World Tourism Day celebrations, following commendations for the Uasin Gishu County Government and the University of Eldoret for their role in hosting the national event. The CS reiterated her commitment to fostering partnerships that align tourism growth with environmental and economic sustainability.
The push for digital innovation comes amid efforts to position Kenya as a leader in tech-driven tourism. By integrating AI, digital platforms, and youth-led initiatives, the government aims to create a more inclusive and competitive sector that benefits local communities while attracting global travelers. Miano’s vision underscores a broader strategy to harness technology for both economic and ecological resilience, ensuring Kenya’s tourism industry remains dynamic and forward-looking.
Public-interest implications of the digital transformation include expanded market access for small-scale tourism operators, enhanced visitor experiences through personalized services, and greater awareness of Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage. The emphasis on youth engagement and environmental stewardship also aligns with national goals for sustainable development and job creation. As the sector evolves, the success of these initiatives will depend on sustained investment, cross-sector collaboration, and the ability to adapt to emerging technological trends.
The 2026 World Tourism Day celebrations highlighted Kenya’s commitment to innovation as a driver of tourism growth. With digital tools enabling deeper engagement with global audiences and local communities, the country is positioning itself to capitalize on the opportunities of the digital age. Miano’s call for action reflects a strategic shift toward leveraging technology to address challenges and unlock new potential in one of Kenya’s most vital economic sectors.
The event served as a platform to showcase Kenya’s tourism potential while reinforcing the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving long-term goals. As the nation moves forward, the integration of AI and digital solutions will play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism industry.