The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) has dismissed remarks made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urging tourists and investors to keep off Kenya until after the 2027 General Election.
The rejoinder comes after Gachagua, speaking during a Sunday service in Kirinyaga, claimed that Kenya’s political instability has rendered it unsafe for tourism and foreign investments, warning visitors to stay away until calm resumes.
“We are approaching anarchy, the state of nature where people would take arms against government and government goons,” he said, citing a recent spike in alleged state-sponsored political violence. “Even our tourists are no longer safe in this country. There are too many goons everywhere, and I would call on tourists to suspend their visit to Kenya until next year. We face this administration, we do away with goons and rogue policemen, then you can come.”
In a statement issued on Monday, the Federation emphasized that tourists visiting Kenya remain uninvolved in domestic political affairs and are not targets of political rivalries.
“They come to experience Magical Kenya’s wildlife, beaches, culture, hospitality, conferences, and sporting events. They are neither involved in nor targeted by the political rivalries that occasionally play out within our country,” the statement read in part.
The Federation warned that such sentiments risk undermining destination confidence and damaging a sector that supports a vital economic ecosystem.
“Hotel employees, tour guides, drivers, artisans, farmers, entertainers, beach operators, airlines, travel agents, and countless small businesses rely on a steady flow of visitors to earn a living,” KTF said.
The Federation urged politicians to refrain from using tourism and other critical sectors as collateral in political disputes, warning that such rhetoric puts the livelihoods of many Kenyans at risk.
“Kenya remains one of Africa’s premier tourism destinations. We welcome visitors from around the world with the warmth, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences for which our country is renowned,” KTF said.
Gachagua’s remarks came shortly after his party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party, secured victory in the Ol Kalou constituency by-election held on July 16, dealing a blow to the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.
