MUMBAI (India), Feb 3 (NNN-KBC) — Kenya is targeting a 20 per cent increase in visitor arrivals from India by the end of the year, driven by intensified promotional campaigns in key Indian cities.
Over the weekend, 15 Kenyan travel agencies actively marketing the country in India expressed confidence in achieving this growth.
Speaking at the close of the annual Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) at the Jio Convention Center in India’s Mumbai, Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) CEO Fred Kaigwa said current market trends indicate a surge in Indian tourist arrivals by the close of 2025.
“The travel trade roadshows in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Kolkata, culminating in the OTM tourism fair, have significantly boosted Kenya’s visibility in India. We are optimistic that these engagements will translate into increased bookings,” Kaigwa stated.
He noted a strong interest in Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, alongside leisure travel, following engagements with key stakeholders.
Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has launched a two-month joint sales campaign in collaboration with top Indian travel agencies, including SOTC Travel Limited, Make My Trip, Ease My Trip, Pick Your Trail, and Thomas Cook.
KTB CEO June Chepkemei emphasized the campaign’s role in strengthening Kenya’s position as a preferred destination for Indian travelers.
“As an emerging market, India presents immense potential for Kenya’s tourism sector. We are committed to working closely with the private sector to keep Kenya top of mind for both travelers and investors,” she said.
Last year, tourist arrivals from India reached 106,863, up from 95,038 in 2023, marking a 12.4% growth.
The Maasai Mara Game Reserve remains a key draw for Indian travelers, but industry stakeholders are keen to promote Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings.
“Our marketing efforts go beyond Kenya’s signature beach and wildlife safaris. We are highlighting destinations like Amboseli, Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Aberdares, and the Kenyan coast, which are gaining traction among Indian tourists,” Kaigwa explained.
Golden Holiday founder and chairman Bakul Chandaria underscored the importance of travel agent education in sustaining growth.
“In-market campaigns have raised Kenya’s visibility, but we must scale up training for travel agents to enhance their knowledge and improve sales,” he said.
Kenya’s participation at OTM 2024, which featured over 1,600 exhibitors from 60 countries, provided a platform for networking, business partnerships, and insights into global tourism trends.
The event was co-hosted by KTB and KATO, further strengthening Kenya’s collaboration with the private sector in expanding its footprint in the Indian market. — NNN-KBC
