Kenya Tourism Board has been crowned as the best tourism board in Africa, at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards), in London.
KTB beat competitors Egypt Tourism Authority, Rwanda Development Board, South African Tourism, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority and Instituto do Turismo de Cabo Verde, affirming Kenya’s position as a continental benchmark for destination marketing and promotion.
Other winners were the Masai Mara National Reserve, which was named best Safari destination, reinforcing Kenya’s leadership in African tourism.
Masai Mara faced stiff competition from iconic parks such as Chobe, Kruger, Serengeti, South Luangwa and Volcanoes National Parks.
This accolade highlights the Mara’s unmatched wildlife experiences, especially the celebrated annual wildebeest migration and its pioneering community-focused conservation efforts.
Kenya’s success extends beyond these wins. KTB also received commendations in categories such as Best Tourism Video with the acclaimed campaign “This is the Real Deal,” best country destination, best city destination for Nairobi, and best international airport for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
These recognitions collectively demonstrate Kenya’s diverse tourism appeal and infrastructure excellence.
KTB acting CEO Allan Njoroge in a statement yesterday said the accolades are a strong testament to Kenya’s extraordinary natural heritage and commitment to sustainable tourism growth.
“The Masai Mara remains our crown jewel and one of the world’s premier safari destinations. Our recognition as best tourism board reflects KTB’s innovative marketing strategies, strategic partnerships and concerted efforts to grow visitor arrivals, boost revenue and create millions of jobs for Kenyans,” Njoroge said.
These awards came at the side lines of the 2025 World Travel Market (WTM) in London, where KTB showcased the destination.
The board led a dynamic Kenyan delegation to the global tourism showcase, leveraging the platform to forge new partnerships, promote Kenya’s newest tourism products, and drive international arrivals.
Its presence at this year’s WTM amplified Kenya’s diverse offerings, including adventure, cultural festivals, coastal experiences, and eco-tourism, ensuring Kenya remains top of mind for travellers worldwide.
Kenya continues to raise its profile as Africa’s premier tourism destination, combining world-class wildlife experiences with vibrant cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and warm hospitality.
Tourism and Wildlife CS Rebecca Miano, during a Ministers’ forum, said Kenya stands ready to lead with sustainable tourism, innovation and strategic partnerships that drive inclusive growth and empower communities.
by MARTIN MWITA
