Kenya has upped her
game in attracting professionals to tour the country as they continue working
remotely for companies overseas by unveiling the Digital Nomad Work Permit.
Speaking during the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 at Uhuru
Gardens in Nairobi, President William Ruto said the permit is part of government’s
strategy to incentivise the hospitality industry
and promote Kenya’s rich and diverse culture and help the tourism sector attain
its full potential.
“Our target is to
make Kenya a must-visit destination and attract five million visitors a year by
2027,” the President said.
The President also
announced a visa-free policy for visitors from select countries as part of a broader
strategy of welcoming visitors from diverse ecosystems to experience Kenya’s rich
tourism and cultural experiences.
Ruto also announced
the introduction of a new Transit and Long Connection Travelers Electronic
Travel Authorization (eTA) for transit passengers at Jomo Kenyatta
International Airport (JKIA).
The ETA allows transit
visitors at the JKIA to step out and explore Kenya’s natural beauty and
exceptional lifestyle during layovers, rather than waiting at the terminal.
“Now, travelers can
truly immerse themselves in the magic of Kenya, their home away from home,” Tourism
and Wildlife CS Rebecca Miano said.
“We are happy that
his Excellency has launched two products that will allow travellers to visit
Kenya and showcase. We are very happy and we welcome everyone to Magical Kenya.”
The Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 attracted about
4,000 people including over
300 exhibitors tourism professionals, tour guides, marketers, hoteliers
and airlines and provided an unparalleled opportunity for industry leaders and stakeholders to ignite new collaborations
and opportunities.
“It’s a great opportunity to network
and also to sell destination Kenya, it is the largest expo so far out of the 13
that have been arranged before,” CS Miano said.