Kenya will from February 2025 undertake a nationwide classification exercise for all tourism facilities and establishments.
Tourism Regulatory Authority Director General Nobert Talam on Wednesday said the exercise will ensure travellers have a clear understanding of the services, amenities, and overall experiences they can expect when visiting the country.
According to Talam, the classification initiative is part of a larger strategy aimed at enhancing tourism standards across Kenya, enabling tourists — both domestic and international — to make informed choices about accommodations and services across the country.
The last comprehensive assessment was conducted six years ago.
Talam was speaking during the launch of the North Rift Tourism circuit in Eldoret.
He said the exercise will be undertaken in line with provisions given by the government to ensure that sector players conform to best practices.
"We are currently at the accreditation stage, where we have nearly finalised accrediting around 5,000 beds in the North Rift region," Talam said.
"All operators must adhere to specified provisions to guarantee that we offer our visitors the highest quality standards," he noted.
The DG warned that action will be taken against those operating illegally, adding that the accreditation process currently being undertaken is a precursor to the classification exercise set to begin in February next year.
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei on her part emphasised the tourism potential of each circuit, noting the potential to capture an even greater share of visitors, and create a more inclusive tourism sector.
"The North Rift region, while predominantly known for
its world-famous high-altitude athletes, has so much more to offer in terms of
history, culture, and wildlife, as well as adventure activities,"
Chepkemei noted.
Chepkemei highlighted that diversifying Kenya's tourism offerings will enable more immersive experiences for visitors and contribute to economic growth in these regions.
“As KTB, we confirm that we'll be available to help package these products, market them, brand them, and provide resources to promote them not only locally but also on an international level,” she said.
The event, which attracted various stakeholders from the region, served as a platform for strategising on ways to market the hidden gems within the North Rift Circuit.
Nandi County Deputy Governor Yulita Cheruiyot underscored the economic opportunities the tourism circuit presents, especially in job creation for the youth.
"There is tremendous potential in our region, and as we expand the opportunities for hospitality, we will bring in more business and provide a platform for our economy to thrive," she said.
"The tourism sector can employ many young people, so we must seize this chance to make the North Rift thrive," she stated.
KTB envisions that these circuits will facilitate easier exploration for domestic tourists and offer themed travel routes for international tourists, ensuring that tourism revenues are more evenly distributed across the counties.
