Abundant promise: Why Kenya must guard peace

Kenya! We are a land of breathtaking beauty and abundant promise.

From our world-renowned wildlife parks teeming with majestic animals, to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya and the pristine beaches along our stunning coastline, our country offers a unique and diverse experience to visitors.

We are the proud home of the great wildebeest migration — one of the seven new wonders of the world — and our rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and welcoming people make Kenya truly unforgettable.

Ours is a nation blessed with unmatched natural and human resources. We enjoy warm weather all year round, world-class athletes who shine on global stages, and incredible stories that continue to inspire the world.

These are not just tourism assets — they are symbols of Kenya’s vibrant spirit. Today, we stand at a moment of extraordinary promise.

Our tourism statistics tell an encouraging and uplifting story — a story of resilience, revival, and renewed global interest in our nation. These numbers, however, represent far more than just visits or revenue.

They signify opportunities to empower our youth, create meaningful jobs, promote small and medium enterprises, stimulate local economies, and drive lasting economic transformation across every region.

But let us be clear: while we celebrate our achievements, we must also recognise that more is required of us.

If we are to truly transform the tourism sector and leave behind a legacy that future generations will be proud of, we must rise to this occasion with courage, unity, and an unyielding commitment to peace.

Tourism flourishes where peace reigns. It is peace that invites the world to come and experience the wonder that is Kenya. It is peace that encourages investment, fosters trust, strengthens institutions, and inspires innovation.

Most importantly, it is peace that gives our youth hope — a sense that they can dream bigger, work harder, and build a life of dignity and purpose.

That is why today, I issue a heartfelt call to every Kenyan: let us protect this promise. Let us safeguard the progress we have made and defend the future we are building.

Let us reject division, incitement and destruction. Let us refuse to be drawn into violence or used as pawns for selfish or political gain.

Instead, let us stand united—as one people—joined by a shared vision of prosperity, progress and national pride.

The future of our tourism industry, and the many opportunities it offers for our youth and communities depend on the choices we make today. Let us choose dialogue over discord. Let us choose hope over fear.

Let us choose peace, not just as a necessity for development, but as a legacy we will proudly pass on to our children and grandchildren. Kenya, this is our moment. Let us rise for peace.

Let us strive for peace. Let us stand together and build a brighter, more prosperous future for all, with hope, determination, and the unwavering belief that a united Kenya is an unstoppable force for good.

The writer is the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife