On the evening of 14th March, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Rebecca Miano, attended the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, marking an important moment for enhancing Kenya-Ireland relations in the tourism sector.
CS Miano expressed the value Kenya places on learning from Ireland’s successful tourism strategies. “I’m particularly glad to note that our tourism sector has a lot to learn from the Irish experience,” she said.
During her speech, she outlined the key areas where Kenya and Ireland would focus their efforts to bolster tourism collaboration:
(1) Marketing and promotion
(2) Strengthening aviation and connectivity
(3) Promoting eco-tourism and sustainability
(4) Expanding cultural exchange programmes
(5) Developing education and training in tourism
(6) Advancing sports tourism
(7) Enhancing business and conference tourism
(8) Fostering heritage and diaspora tourism
(9) Embracing digital and smart tourism
(10) Attracting tourism investment and development
She also highlighted the shared commitment to addressing global challenges, particularly in climate action and biodiversity protection.
“In the spirit of multilateralism, Kenya and Ireland have demonstrated concerted efforts in addressing the most pressing global issues — climate action and biodiversity protection. As a people, Kenya highly regards our collective action in building a sustainable and resilient future,” CS Miano remarked.
She further called for strengthened collaboration between the two nations, particularly regarding climate action, green growth, and the management of ecosystems, which are critical to Kenya’s tourism sector.
The event, attended by dignitaries including Irish Ambassador to Kenya Caitríona Ingoldsby, also marked the continued friendship and partnership between Kenya and Ireland.
“This occasion commemorates the legacy of St. Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, besides celebrating the rich culture, heritage, and enduring spirit of the Irish people. It’s gratifying to note that Kenya and Ireland have over the years nurtured a cordial partnership rooted in friendship, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to development,” CS Miano concluded.
Both nations remain committed to strengthening ties, with tourism seen as a key area for future collaboration.
