Tourism stakeholders have urged political leaders to exercise restraint in their public statements, warning that divisive rhetoric could damage Kenya's image as a leading tourism and investment destination.

The appeal follows remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urging tourists and foreign investors to delay travel and investment in Kenya, citing growing insecurity. Tourism Principal Secretary Prof. Julius Bitok described the comments as unfortunate and irresponsible, saying they threaten years of effort by the government and private sector to market Kenya globally.

Prof. Bitok noted that tourism contributes nearly 10 percent of Kenya's GDP, generated about KSh1.7 trillion last year, and supports close to two million jobs. He cautioned that statements undermining confidence in the country's safety put livelihoods and economic gains at risk, stressing that tourism should remain free from political disputes.

The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), Kenya Coast Tourist Association (KCTA), and Lake Victoria Tourism Association (LVTA) also criticized the remarks, warning that negative political rhetoric could trigger booking cancellations, discourage investment, and hurt millions of Kenyans who rely on tourism, including hotel workers, tour guides, transport operators, farmers, and small businesses.

The stakeholders emphasized that Kenya's reputation has been built over decades and urged leaders to protect the country's image. Meanwhile, the government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of visitors and encouraged tourists and investors to continue choosing Kenya for leisure, business, investment, and adventure.