14th Magical Kenya Tourism Expo; Explore, Connect, Celebrate: Welcome Home
Tourism remains a cornerstone of Kenya's economy, contributing 7% to the GDP and injecting Ksh 1.05 trillion into the economy last year, as per the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). As the global tourism landscape evolves, Kenya is positioning itself to meet the changing demands of travelers while ensuring the sustainability of its tourism business. By complementing its traditional tourism strengths with a robust meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector, Kenya is establishing itself as Africa's premier gateway destination, offering both leisure and business tourism opportunities.
The MICE sector has become a key driver of Kenya’s tourism growth, contributing significantly to the economy and supporting sustainable tourism practices. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), MICE and business tourism accounted for 24% of Kenya’s total arrivals last year, with 461,042 visitors. High-profile events like the Africa Climate Summit and the Magical Kenya Tourism Expo (MKTE) have propelled this growth. Notably, the number of conferences held in Kenya rose from 694 to 794, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to leverage MICE for economic gain. Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) plays a vital role in expanding these opportunities and promoting domestic tourism.
The recently concluded 14th edition of the MKTE, that took place in October 2-4, 2024, at the Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum, cemented Kenya’s reputation as a leading MICE destination. With the theme "Explore, Connect, Celebrate: Welcome Home," the expo showcased the breadth of business and leisure tourism opportunities available across the country. It will not only highlighted Kenya’s scenic attractions, but also emphasized emerging segments like cultural, eco, and adventure tourism, positioning Kenya as a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for global business tourism. The event further deepened Kenya’s engagement with key stakeholders in the global travel industry, enhancing its role as a strategic MICE destination in Africa.