Kenya secures seat on UN Tourism Executive Council 2025–2029, enhancing global influence

KENYA – Kenya has been elected to the United Nations Tourism Executive Council for the 2025–2029 term, a significant milestone announced at the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Tourism and Environment Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano revealed that this membership places Kenya in the second-highest decision-making body of the UN tourism framework, amplifying its voice in shaping global tourism policies.

Alongside its seat on the council, Kenya will chair the Tourism and Competitiveness Committee, serve as Africa’s Regional Representative on the Tourism and Sustainability Committee, and participate in the Programme and Budget Committee.

These leadership roles align with Kenya’s tourism recovery strategy focused on sustainable investments and community-based tourism development.

The UN Tourism Executive Council guides global policy direction, oversees the implementation of the General Assembly’s resolutions, and sets priorities impacting the future of the tourism sector.

Kenya’s election underlines its growing diplomatic influence and commitment to elevating Africa’s tourism agenda.

With international arrivals rebounding, Kenya is leveraging these roles to promote sustainable tourism, green investments, and local community benefits, positioning itself as a key player in the sector’s global recovery and diversification efforts.

The UN Tourism Executive Council has played a pivotal role in shaping global tourism over the past five years.

Among its major achievements is guiding the sector through the post-pandemic recovery, helping international tourist arrivals surpass 2019 levels by 2025.

The council has driven innovation by launching global initiatives such as the “Safe Destinations Challenge,” which strengthens tourism resilience in Europe and beyond.

The council has also emphasized sustainable tourism, collaborating with governments and private sectors to advance environmentally friendly practices and community-based projects.

Examples include the Green Projects Challenge and the Community Tourism Challenge, which reward innovation in sustainable development.

Education has been another focus, with ongoing rollout of the UN Tourism Education Toolkit and growth of the UN Tourism Online Academy, promoting workforce development worldwide.

Partnership-building has enabled broader inclusion, bringing diverse stakeholders to align with sustainable development goals.

The council’s oversight of budget and programs ensures efficient allocation of resources to high-impact initiatives.

Overall, the Executive Council’s leadership has been crucial in accelerating tourism’s recovery, fostering resilience, innovation, and sustainability, and supporting a more inclusive, competitive global tourism landscape.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.