Kenya is reshaping its tourism landscape by introducing a new policy that allows foreign travellers on connecting flights to explore the country without the need for a visa.

This decision is part of a broader strategy to attract more visitors and position Kenya as a leading tourist destination in Africa.

Kenya introduced the Transit and Long Connection Travellers Electronic Travel Authorisation, which will permit passengers with layovers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to leave the airport and visit the capital, Nairobi, and surrounding areas.

The move is expected to enhance the traveller experience and encourage more people to explore Kenya during their transit time.

President William Ruto, speaking at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024, announced the new initiative. He emphasised that travellers who previously spent hours at JKIA terminals can now immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Kenya without the hassle of securing a visa. 

This decision is seen as part of the government’s wider efforts to elevate Kenya’s standing as a top tourist destination, with a target of attracting 5 million visitors by 2027.

Ruto stated, “Travellers at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) with time between connection flights will therefore now be able to immerse themselves in Magical Kenya instead of waiting at the terminals.”

To further solidify its ambition of becoming Africa’s Silicon Valley, Kenya has also introduced a Digital Nomad Work Permit. This permit will allow foreign digital professionals to live and work in Kenya, granting them greater flexibility to leave and enter the country as they please. The initiative aims to attract remote workers seeking a balance of high-quality lifestyle and professional opportunities.

Ruto also stated, “I am pleased to announce the introduction of a Digital Nomad work permit, designed to welcome global digital professionals.”

While the specific details on the implementation of these new systems are yet to be fully outlined, the government’s intentions are clear. Kenya is striving to cater to global professionals while capitalising on the growing digital sector.

The government expects the decision will result in contributing significantly to the local economy, with the tourism sector playing a pivotal role.

Tourism has long been a key driver of Kenya’s economy, and recent statistics show a steady recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Kenya recorded nearly 2 million tourists, a 31.5 per cent increase from 2022. However, this growth was slower compared to the 71 per cent spike in 2022, underscoring the need for innovative strategies to maintain momentum.

The wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara continues to be one of the most significant attractions, with August 2023 marking the highest number of arrivals, accounting for 11 per cent of the total. President Ruto hopes that with the introduction of the new visa-free transit pass, tourists will not only visit the Mara but also discover the rich cultural and historical offerings of Nairobi and beyond.

Kenya’s tourism industry, which saw a substantial uptick with 460,000 additional visitors in 2023, is expected to continue benefiting from these new policies.