Kenya is set to undertake a nationwide classification exercise for all tourism facilities and establishments starting February 2025.

This comprehensive assessment, which took place six years ago, will ensure that travelers clearly understand the services, amenities, and overall experiences they can expect when visiting the country.

Speaking during the launch of the North Rift Tourism circuit in Eldoret, the Director General of the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA), Norbert Talam, said that the exercise will be undertaken in accordance with the government’s provisions to ensure that sector players conform to best practices.

“We are currently at the accreditation stage, where we have nearly finalized accrediting around 5,000 beds in the North Rift region,” Talam stated. “All operators must adhere to specified provisions to guarantee that we offer our visitors the highest quality standards. Action will be taken against those operating illegally. The accreditation process we are currently undertaking is a precursor to the classification exercise set to begin in February next year,” he added.

The classification initiative is part of a larger strategy aimed at enhancing tourism standards across Kenya, enabling domestic and international tourists to make informed choices about accommodations and services across the country.

On her part, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei, emphasized the tourism potential of each circuit noting the potential to capture an even greater share of visitors and create a more inclusive tourism sector.

“The North Rift region, while predominantly known for its world-famous high-altitude athletes, has so much more to offer in terms of history, culture, and wildlife, as well as adventure activities,” Chepkemei noted. “The potential for growth here is undeniably immense, and the journey continues as we reveal the exciting possibilities of this great circuit.”

Chepkemei highlighted that diversifying Kenya’s tourism offerings will enable more immersive experiences for visitors and contribute to economic growth in these regions.

“As KTB, we confirm that we’ll be available to help package these products, market them, brand them, and provide resources to promote them not only locally but also on an international level,” she added.

The event, which attracted various stakeholders from the region, served as a platform for strategizing on ways to market the hidden gems within the North Rift Circuit. A significant part of the two-day event was dedicated to discussing sustainability, with a particular focus on the ‘One Tourist, One Tree’ initiative. This initiative encourages every traveler visiting Kenya to plant a tree, contributing to the preservation of the country’s rich biodiversity.

Nandi County Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot underscored the economic opportunities the tourism circuit presents, especially in job creation for the youth. “There is tremendous potential in our region, and as we expand the opportunities for hospitality, we will bring in more business and provide a platform for our economy to thrive. The tourism sector can employ many young people, so we must seize this chance to make the North Rift thrive,” she stated.

KTB envisions that these circuits will facilitate easier exploration for domestic tourists and offer themed travel routes for international tourists, ensuring that tourism revenues are more evenly distributed across the counties.