By Nyang’au Araka
Kenya’s reputation as a global leader in wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism received a major endorsement after a high-level delegation from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) toured key conservation sites in Nairobi on Tuesday.
The delegation, led by WTTC President and Chief Executive Officer Gloria Guevara and Deputy President Najib Balala, visited Nairobi National Park, the historic Ivory Burning Site and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Also Read
They were accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
The visit underscored Kenya’s growing influence in promoting a model where wildlife conservation, community development and tourism work hand in hand to drive economic growth while protecting natural heritage.
Speaking during the visit, Guevara praised Kenya’s long-standing commitment to conservation, describing the country as a global benchmark for balancing environmental protection with tourism development.
“Kenya’s conservation history is remarkable. The country has demonstrated to the world that conservation and tourism can thrive together,” said Guevara.
“Kenya remains a global leader in conservation, and its achievements continue to inspire the international community.”
The WTTC is the world’s leading private-sector tourism body, representing major airlines, hotel groups, tour operators, cruise companies and travel technology firms.
The organization works with governments and international institutions to promote sustainable tourism, investment, job creation and economic growth across the global travel industry.
The visit comes at a time when Kenya is intensifying efforts to position itself as a premier tourism destination while strengthening conservation initiatives that protect iconic wildlife species and critical ecosystems.
Balala, who is the former Tourism Cabinet Secretary, commended the Kenyan government and KWS for safeguarding the country’s wildlife resources, noting that conservation remains central to the success of the tourism sector.
“I commend the Government of Kenya and the Kenya Wildlife Service for their unwavering commitment to protecting our wildlife heritage,” said Balala.
“KWS carries a critical mandate on behalf of the nation, and its work continues to safeguard wildlife for future generations.”
In a symbolic gesture of support, Balala announced a personal contribution of KSh100,000 towards wildlife conservation efforts.
KWS is mandated to conserve and manage the country’s wildlife and protected areas while promoting sustainable use of natural resources for present and future generations.
The WTTC delegation’s visit highlighted the growing importance of partnerships between governments, conservation agencies and the private sector in advancing sustainable tourism.
