By Joshua Otieno | July 20, 2026
The Government has defended Kenya’s image as a safe destination for tourism and investment while urging leaders to avoid statements that could damage the country’s economy. Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said Kenya continues to record growth in tourism, economic performance and development despite political differences. The briefing also addressed national unity, the Ol Kalou case, tax amnesty, the economy, the proposed SACCO law, El Niño preparedness, social protection, healthcare financing and fuel prices.
Mwaura said the government will not allow negative campaigns that portray Kenya as unsafe for visitors, warning that such remarks threaten businesses and thousands of jobs that depend on tourism. He revealed that international tourist arrivals have increased from about 1.48 million to 2.2 million, while domestic tourism has reached 5.2 million, bringing the total number of visitors to approximately 7.5 million. He also defended Kenya against negative stereotypes, saying the country remains one of Africa’s leading economies with strong digital infrastructure and growing export markets.
“Kenya remains safe, stable and open for tourism, investment and business. We must all protect our country’s image because millions of livelihoods depend on it,” said Dr. Isaac Mwaura.
The Government also appealed for national unity, insisting that development projects are being implemented fairly across all regions of the country. Mwaura said investments in infrastructure, affordable housing, digital connectivity and economic empowerment programmes are reaching every part of Kenya, including historically marginalized regions. He urged leaders to embrace dialogue instead of political division, saying national progress depends on cooperation and inclusivity.
On the alleged rape cases in Ol Kalou, the Government called for calm and urged anyone with credible evidence to present it to investigative agencies instead of spreading unverified information. Mwaura warned against incitement and misinformation, emphasizing that justice can only be achieved through proper investigations carried out in accordance with the law.
The Government also announced that the Kenya Revenue Authority has rolled out a tax amnesty programme running from July 1 to December 31, 2026. The initiative offers a 100 percent waiver on penalties, fines and interest for tax debts accumulated up to December 31, 2025. Officials say the programme is intended to encourage voluntary tax compliance while supporting economic recovery and increasing government revenue.
Kenya’s economy continued to show positive growth during the first quarter of 2026, expanding by 5.3 percent. According to the Government, manufacturing, construction, hospitality, finance and agriculture all recorded improved performance, reflecting resilience despite global economic uncertainties.
The Government further dismissed claims surrounding the proposed SACCO Societies Amendment Bill, clarifying that the proposed law is intended to strengthen SACCO operations rather than give the Government control over members’ savings. Mwaura encouraged Kenyans to participate in the ongoing public participation process before Parliament concludes debate on the Bill.
With the anticipated El Niño season approaching, the Government has activated nationwide preparedness measures. Emergency response teams have been strengthened, relief supplies pre-positioned and county governments directed to improve drainage systems, reinforce infrastructure and identify evacuation centres in flood-prone areas. Farmers are also receiving weather advisories to minimize potential losses.
Meanwhile, more than 133,000 vulnerable households across Kenya’s arid and semi-arid counties have received Sh1.8 billion through the Hunger Safety Net Programme. Beneficiaries have been receiving monthly cash transfers aimed at cushioning families against drought and food insecurity.
In the health sector, Kenya has signed a five-year health partnership with the United States worth approximately Sh217 billion to strengthen healthcare services and advance Universal Health Coverage. The agreement introduces direct government-to-government financing, while 7,440 UHC workers have also been confirmed on permanent and pensionable terms.
The Government also defended the Social Health Authority digital platform, explaining that the two percent service fee charged on transactions is provided for under the Digital Health Act and supports the technology used to process healthcare claims efficiently. Officials emphasized that public health funds remain under government control and oversight.
Finally, Mwaura announced that Kenyans will continue benefiting from stable fuel prices after the Government extended the reduced eight percent VAT on petroleum products until October 14, 2026, alongside ongoing fuel stabilization measures aimed at protecting consumers from global oil price shocks.
