The Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) has entered into a landmark partnership with Kiambu to boost both domestic and international tourism, marking the first collaboration of its kind between the association and a county government, since devolution.
This has brought together the Tourism Directorate led by Chief Officer Simon Kiberenge, the Chairman of the Kiambu County Tourism Board, James Ngunyi, and KATO Chief Executive Officer Fred Kaigua.
Their discussions centered on positioning Kiambu as a premier tea and coffee farm tourism hub, while also strengthening the county’s visibility as a must-visit destination.
“Kiambu has unique cultural and agricultural experiences that are still untapped. With KATO’s support, we are confident that our farms, heritage sites, and leisure facilities will attract more visitors, both locally and internationally,” said Kiberenge.
Ngunyi emphasized that the county was ready to leverage its proximity to Nairobi and its rich agritourist potential.
“Tea and coffee have defined Kiambu for decades. By turning our farms into tourism experiences, we can create jobs, expand revenue streams, and give visitors authentic Kenyan stories,” he said.
On his part, KATO CEO applauded Kiambu’s pioneering move, noting that county governments play a crucial role in diversifying Kenya’s tourism portfolio beyond traditional wildlife safaris.
“Tourism today is about immersive experiences. Kiambu’s initiative will not only showcase Kenya’s agricultural heritage but also strengthen domestic tourism, something we have been keen to promote,” Kaigua remarked.
The collaboration is expected to enhance marketing strategies, capacity building for local tour operators, and the development of structured tour packages highlighting Kiambu’s tea estates, coffee farms, cultural sites and natural attractions.
Tourism analysts say Kiambu’s bold step could inspire other counties to forge similar partnerships with KATO, helping to spread visitor numbers across the country, while reducing over-reliance on the coast and wildlife parks.
By partnering with KATO, Kiambu positions itself as a model in county-driven tourism development, setting the stage for a more inclusive and diversified industry that benefits local communities.
The development comes in the wake of the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife’s announcement that it has partnered with all 47 counties to identify and promote new tourism products.
Tourism CS Rebecca Miano recently emphasized the importance of domestic tourism, pointing out that increased exploration of local destinations will not only boost the sector’s GDP contribution, but also foster peace and cultural appreciation among Kenyans.
“Each county is uniquely endowed with tourism products. The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife is committed to supporting these efforts, so that together, we can promote tourism for both domestic and international visitors” said Miano, said during last year’s World Tourism Day.
By Grace Naishoo
