Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, has gained continental recognition after being ranked the fifth-best city in Africa in the Travellers’ Choice Awards. Nairobi has been ranked among the top five cities in Africa. Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano celebrated the achievement on social media, calling on Kenyans to uphold peace and patriotism to help the city retain its ranking. “Nairobi has been recognized on the Travelers Choice Awards by Trip Advisor as the 5th Best City in Africa. May we continue maintaining peace, patriotism, prosperity, and kindness. Kenya is our home and a dream destination for the world,” Miano’s statement read.
How did Nairobi become 5th best city in Africa? A TripAdvisor report describes Nairobi as Africa’s safari capital, highlighting it as a unique gateway to both wildlife and nightlife experiences. The city also draws tourists with its vibrant music clubs, bustling shops and markets, and a diverse array of restaurants. “Top sights include the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre and the black rhinos of Nairobi National Park. The compact city centre is safe to walk in, and taxis make other areas accessible,” the statement read. Marrakech, known as the “Red City” of Morocco, was ranked Africa’s best for its vibrant markets, gardens, palaces, and mosques. Port Louis, Mauritius, which was ranked second, was praised for its bustling port, revitalized waterfront, and lively market.
Zanzibar Island of Tanzania, which came in third, was termed as a is a breathtaking spot to escape from the world. Cape Town Central of South Africa, which was ranked fourth, earned recognition for its iconic views from Blaauwberg Beach and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Nairobi ranks among most beautiful cities in Africa Nairobi’s ranking comes months after The Africa Report, in partnership with Jeune Afrique, released its inaugural list of Africa’s 30 most attractive cities. In the rankings, Nairobi placed sixth in Africa. Cape Town and Johannesburg of South Africa, Kigali of Rwanda and Casablanca and Rabat of Morocco ranking ahead of Kenya’s capital.
This comprehensive assessment, regarded as a milestone for pan-African urban studies, went beyond traditional metrics to evaluate cities from all angles. The ranking was based on nearly 2,000 responses gathered through an extensive survey that used a multidimensional approach to assess urban attractiveness. The study’s methodology incorporated 26 sub-criteria, grouped into five core categories that reflect the realities of modern city life across the continent. The five categories were quality of life, infrastructure and housing, employment and economic opportunities, essential services and foreign direct investment (FDI) from 2019 to 2023.
by Faith Chandianya
