Kenya President William Ruto launches Wildebeest migration. Yes, you got right.
President William Ruto noted that the Masai Mara, which receives more than 400,000 visitors annually, is the crown jewel of Kenya’s tourism and a global symbol of conservation success.
The President said the broadcast of the annual spectacle, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, was part of a broader campaign to boost international tourist arrivals, with a target of five million visitors by 2027.
“This historic broadcast is a powerful reminder of what is possible when vision meets partnership,” Ruto said.
“It is also a call to the world to travel with purpose, to preserve what is precious, and to pass on a healthier planet to future generations.”
Ruto noted that the Masai Mara, which receives more than 400,000 visitors annually, is the crown jewel of Kenya’s tourism and a global symbol of conservation success, adding that the migration offers a rare life-and-death spectacle as wildebeests cross the crocodile-infested Mara River.
Ruto said the government is diversifying tourism beyond wildlife and beaches to include digital innovation, sports and conference tourism, and cultural experiences, positioning Kenya as the home of human origin and a top global travel destination.
He hailed partnerships such as those with China under the Belt and Road Initiative, saying they go beyond infrastructure to foster shared responsibility for protecting the planet.
In 2024, Kenya welcomed 2.4 million international visitors, a 15 percent increase from 2023, which Ruto described as a sign of growing global confidence in the country’s destinations.
He invited local and international tourists to experience the migration and other attractions, describing Kenya as “open, radiant, and ready to share her soul with the world.”
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano and Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu were among officials present at the launch.
