Kenya is embracing a digital transformation in its tourism sector, unveiling plans for a Digital Heritage Centre at the iconic Bomas of Kenya during the Magical Kenya Tourism Expo 2025, held from October 1–3 in Nairobi. The initiative leverages virtual reality, augmented reality, and interactive technologies to showcase the country’s cultural heritage, traditional art, and urban landscapes. Dr. Kahithe Kiiru, Bomas of Kenya production manager, emphasized that the project aims to preserve and modernize Kenyan culture, ensuring it remains dynamic, relevant, and appealing to younger, tech-savvy travelers. The centre will also function as a research and educational hub, archiving oral histories and indigenous knowledge digitally for future generations.
This digital shift aligns Kenya with broader trends across Africa, where countries are rebranding their tourism offerings to compete globally. Tanzania, for instance, released the documentary The African Dream in September 2025, highlighting its modern infrastructure, cultural heritage, and coastal attractions. Egypt launched the We Are Egypt campaign in August 2025, promoting locals as cultural ambassadors and investing in digital storytelling to attract one million Arab visitors by mid-2026. South Africa has integrated creativity and policy innovation through campaigns like South Africa Awaits, Come Find Your Joy! and digital visa programs, aiming to facilitate tourism, film, and events. These initiatives underscore the continent’s move toward immersive, tech-driven tourism experiences that appeal to new generations of travelers.
Kenya hopes this digital heritage approach will boost international arrivals from 2.4 million in 2024 to 5 million by 2027. The UN World Tourism Barometer shows Africa’s tourism is rebounding, with arrivals up 12% in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, though the continent still accounts for less than 10% of global arrivals. By investing in technology, interactive cultural experiences, and digital storytelling, Kenya aims to strengthen its global tourism appeal, enhance cultural preservation, and position itself as a pioneering destination for immersive, heritage-focused tourism in East Africa.