In a move aimed at promoting tourism and celebrating the United Nations World Tourism Day, the government has granted Kenyans free entry to all game parks and game reserves on September 28, 2024.

This forms part of a week-long series of activities set to run from September 22 to 29 in honour of the annual event.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano on Sunday said the move was aimed at promoting domestic tourism and enabling Kenyans to sample and enjoy the country’s heritage.

The CS settled on Saturday because the exact Tourism Day will be on a Friday, a work day.

Kisumu County will host this year's tourism week, which will be attended by government and county officials.

“The culmination of this crucial event will grant Kenyans free access to any of our game parks and reserves for free on Saturday the 28th of September 2024,” Ms Miano said at Sereolipi School in Samburu County on Sunday during the ceremony to mark World Rhino Day.

Among the activities, the highlight will be the free entry to all national parks on September 28, which is expected to draw both local and international visitors, strengthening Kenya’s position as a leading tourist destination.

World Tourism Day has been held on September 27 each year since 1980. The date marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Statutes of the Organisation in 1970, paving the way for the establishment of UN Tourism five years later.

In Kenya, the Kisumu government won the bid to host this year's Kenya Tourism Week and United Nations World Tourism Day which has been themed “Tourism and Peace”.

It celebrates tourism's role in fostering social, political, cultural, and economic development. 

Kisumu will take centre stage as it showcases its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes and tourist attractions.

The event will feature peace caravans, environmental conservation, capacity-building, marathon races, charity walks, football matches, beach events, and cultural festivals.

Networking gala dinners, exhibitions, youth-focused programmes and award ceremonies recognising achievements have also been lined up by the organisers.

The CS urged Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to discover what the country has to offer in its parks.

“I encourage Kenyans to show up in their numbers, but also implore them to observe the laid down rules as they tour the parks and reserves teeming with wildlife to avoid any hazards,” she said.