NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has released a detailed programme for this year’s Jamhuri Week, outlining four days dedicated to tourism, conservation, and cultural showcase ahead of Kenya’s 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the expanded programme reflects a shift in how Kenya commemorates its independence, with the Ruto administration placing tourism at the centre of national identity and economic transformation.
“As we celebrate our sovereignty and independence, we also honour the transformative power of tourism and wildlife in shaping our nation’s progress and prosperity,” Miano said.
She noted that the week-long programme is designed to help Kenyans understand the government’s achievements and priorities in positioning the country as a premier global destination.
“Our President William Ruto has made tourism a key priority in his administration. Through his directive, we have these days fully focused on tourism,” she added.
All activities will take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) and will feature engagements with state agencies, conservation institutions, industry associations and tourism stakeholders.
According to the official schedule, activities begin on Monday with a national conservation forum under the theme “From Evidence to Impact: Transforming Conservation Through Scientific Research, Innovation and Local Stewardship.” Experts, researchers, and community leaders will examine new strategies for environmental protection, wildlife stewardship, and climate resilience.
On Tuesday, focus shifts to tourism marketing and product development. Led by the Kenya Tourism Board, the sessions will highlight destination branding, domestic tourism growth, and Kenya’s emerging global tourism identity amid rising competition across Africa.
Throughout the week, exhibitions, live demonstrations, cultural showcases, and panel discussions will display Kenya’s advancements in eco-tourism, conservation science, cultural heritage preservation, and the fast-growing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is expected to deliver a keynote address, signalling the government’s commitment to tourism-led development and new investment opportunities.
A major highlight will be the expanded Tourism and MICE Expo, which will bring together hospitality investors, county tourism boards, conservation organisations, travel operators, and international delegates.
Government officials say Kenya’s rise as a regional hub for global conferences is generating employment, attracting capital, and boosting Nairobi’s profile as a meeting destination of choice.
The government has been positioning the MICE sector as a key pillar of economic diversification, with KICC, Bomas of Kenya, and regional conference centres playing central roles.
To appeal to young Kenyans, the programme includes curated youth hikes, outdoor activities, and showcases featuring contemporary Kenyan music and art. On Friday, families will be treated to a special fun day at KICC following the national ceremony at Uhuru Gardens, offering interactive cultural experiences and exhibitions tailored for children and adults.
Miano said the aim is to immerse both Kenyans and international visitors in the nation’s beauty, creativity, and diversity while reinforcing tourism as a pillar of Kenya’s economic and cultural identity.
“This year’s Jamhuri Week pays tribute to tourism’s role in shaping our nation and its importance to our economic future,” she said.
Thousands of participants, including domestic travellers, stakeholders and foreign visitors, are expected to attend as the country marks 62 years of independence.
