Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has called for a collaboration between her ministry and the Nyandarua County Government to unlock the region’s tourism potential.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Ol Kalou, CS Miano emphasized the need for a joint proposal to the British High Commissioner to seek support in transforming the Happy Valley homes into key tourist attraction sites.
She noted that the historical palatial houses, once owned by British settlers, could attract descendants interested in revisiting their heritage.
“Nyandarua is a county of immense beauty, with natural landscapes that can be developed into premier tourist destinations,” said Miano.
The forum brought together Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha, Deputy Governor Mwangi Mathaara, County Commissioner Abdrisack Jaldesa, officials from the Tourism and Wildlife Ministry and hospitality industry stakeholders.
Governor Badilisha urged the ministry to support Nyandarua’s bid to position itself as a prime sporting tourism destination, given its high-altitude terrain, which is ideal for training elite athletes.
CS Miano acknowledged the county’s tourism potential and pledged the ministry’s support in developing various attraction sites.
She also highlighted Kenya’s booming tourism sector, revealing that 2.4 million international tourists visited the country last year, generating Ksh 452 billion, up from Ksh 377 billion the previous year.
“This year, we expect three million tourists, with revenue projected to hit Ksh 680 billion. By 2027, we anticipate reaching five million international visitors, generating close to Ksh 1 trillion in revenue,” Miano stated.
However, she challenged Nyandarua’s hospitality sector to upgrade its facilities, noting that out of 29 hotels accredited by the Tourism Regulatory Authority, only two received a bronze ranking.
The ministry and county leadership will now work closely to enhance infrastructure, marketing, and tourism services, ensuring Nyandarua fully taps into its rich tourism resources.
