Kenya’s standing as a leading force in wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism gained strong recognition after a senior delegation from the World Travel & Tourism Council toured major conservation sites in Nairobi on Tuesday.
The delegation, headed by WTTC President and Chief Executive Officer Gloria Guevara and Deputy President Najib Balala, toured Nairobi National Park, the historic Ivory Burning Site and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife and the Kenya Wildlife Service joined the delegation during the visit.
The tour highlighted Kenya’s increasing role in promoting an approach that brings together wildlife conservation, community development and tourism to support economic growth while preserving natural heritage.
During the visit, Guevara commended Kenya’s long record of conservation, calling the country a global example of how environmental protection and tourism can advance side by side.
Guevara said Kenya’s conservation journey is exceptional and has shown the world that wildlife protection and tourism can grow together.
She added that Kenya continues to lead globally in conservation and that its achievements remain a source of inspiration for the international community.
The WTTC is the world’s foremost private-sector tourism organization, representing major airlines, hotel groups, tour operators, cruise companies and travel technology firms.
The body works with governments and international institutions to encourage sustainable tourism, investment, employment and economic growth across the global travel sector.
The visit comes as Kenya strengthens efforts to establish itself as a top tourism destination while advancing conservation programs that protect iconic wildlife and vital ecosystems.
Balala, the former Tourism Cabinet Secretary, praised the Kenyan government and KWS for protecting the country’s wildlife resources, saying conservation is central to the success of the tourism industry.
Balala commended the Government of Kenya and the Kenya Wildlife Service for their firm commitment to safeguarding the country’s wildlife heritage.
He said KWS has a crucial national mandate and that its work continues to protect wildlife for future generations.
As a gesture of support, Balala announced a personal contribution of KSh100,000 toward wildlife conservation efforts.
KWS is responsible for conserving and managing Kenya’s wildlife and protected areas while promoting the sustainable use of natural resources for current and future generations.
The WTTC delegation’s visit underscored the rising importance of cooperation between governments, conservation agencies and the private sector in advancing sustainable tourism.