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Kenya has stepped up efforts aimed at increasing the number of tourists from China, with top government officials arguing that Kenya is simply scratching the surface of a very large market.
The growing presence of Chinese nationals in Kenya and improving travel numbers signal an opportunity for significant expansion.
Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa said current arrivals from China do not reflect the country’s potential, given China’s population and the depth of bilateral relations.
He maintained that Kenya’s tourism offering, ranging from wildlife to cultural heritage, positions it well to capture a larger share of outbound Chinese travelers.
Speaking on behalf of Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, Ololtuaa revealed that Chinese tourist arrivals rose sharply in the past year.
He disclosed that visits climbed to 105,000 in 2025, compared to just over 90,000 the previous year, underscoring a steady post-pandemic recovery.
Tourism numbers show strong rebound
“Before Covid-19 the numbers stood at 84,000. With China’s huge population, even if we can get just one million Chinese visitors to Kenya, it will be very exciting,” the PS said.
He was speaking in Nairobi on Sunday during celebrations to mark the Chinese Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse, an event hosted by the Chinese embassy and led by Ambassador Guo Haiyan.
The event was a gathering of Kenyan officials, the Chinese community, and diplomats, and it combined culture and diplomacy.
Shared history and cultural diplomacy
In his address to the guests, Ambassador Guo shared his vision regarding the China-Kenya relationship, focusing on the shared historical experiences and the idea of cultural exchange.
She described the partnership as one shaped by mutual learning over centuries.
“Throughout history, Chinese and African civilizations have been inspiring each other, laying a solid foundation for our enduring friendship,” she stated.
She added that, “Today’s Chinese New Year Gala is a vivid example of our profound communication and exchanges,” linking cultural celebration to ongoing diplomatic engagement.
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Commitment to deeper people-to-people ties
Ambassador Guo pledged that China would continue strengthening these bonds.
“We will take this year to carry forward the traditional friendship, strengthen mutual learning, enhance personal exchanges, particularly among young people, and deepen our sharing of governance experience,” the envoy said.
She further urged both countries to preserve shared values, saying, “Let’s continue to uphold the fine traditions of patriotism, unity and mutual support, jointly promote the excellent traditional Chinese culture, and further enhance mutual understanding and friendship between China and Kenya.”
Global South cooperation and future milestones
“It is my sincere belief that through the joint endeavor of our more than 2.8 billion Chinese and African people, we will contribute more to greater Global South solidarity in addressing global challenges,” she said.
The ambassador noted that the efforts align with China’s vision of promoting “universal human values and building a community with a shared future for humanity.”
She highlighted a key upcoming milestone, stating that “The year 2026 has been designated as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges,” and affirmed that “Cultural dialogue and mutual learning have always been vital forces for human progress and peace.”
The performances were indeed colorful, besides the traditional jubilations.
It also overemphasized the importance of grassroots connections.
Ambassador Guo gave examples of some of the tangible areas of cooperation: “Kenya and China have implemented high-profile cultural programs ranging from film and media collaboration to acrobatics exchanges.”
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Ololtuaa added that “Kenya sent 22 cultural experts to China for an exchange on intangible cultural heritage. They are informing the revitalization of cultural elements, such as the gala we are holding today.”
He stressed reciprocity in cultural engagement and said he was “excited about the relationship that Kenya has with PRC in terms of tourism and cultural cooperation.”
He also pointed out that more than 60,000 Chinese nationals now live and invest in Kenya, contributing significantly to economic growth.
The officials conveyed “greetings from President William Ruto,” and thanked China for “granting them the honour to experience the heartbeat of the year of the horse.”
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Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa and Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan lead other officials during the Chinese New year gala celebrations at the Two Rivers mall, Nairobi on February 8, 2026. PHOTO/ LEAH MUKANGAI
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