Parliament seeks public views on plan to merge tourism agencies

The National Assembly in Kenya has invited both Kenyans and tourism stakeholders to provide their opinions on a proposed merger of key state agencies responsible for the tourism sector. This move aims to streamline management and improve efficiency within the industry. The Departmental Committee on Tourism & Wildlife released a statement on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, regarding the Tourism (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

The Bill seeks to merge the Tourism Research Institute (TRI) and the Tourism Finance Corporation (TFC) into the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) for better efficiency, accountability, and prudent use of public funds. Under the proposed legislation, these two agencies would be dissolved, with their functions and assets transferred to the KTB.

The reforms under the Bill are designed to expand the KTB's mandate to include tourism research, market intelligence, data, statistics, and industry learning platforms. Additionally, the Tourism Fund would have a broader mandate, covering support for tourism product development, safety, innovation, crisis communication, and co-financing with counties.

Transition arrangements for assets, ongoing legal matters, licenses, and staff are also outlined to ensure a smooth transition. The Bill follows a previous public consultation by the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, which involved stakeholders in shaping the Tourism (Tourism Enterprises) Regulations, 2025.

Parliament emphasizes that public participation is a constitutional obligation, giving Kenyans the chance to contribute to the law-making process. They encourage citizens to read the Bill, prepare their views or memoranda, and submit them to Parliament. The National Assembly believes that input from the public will lead to better laws for a stronger tourism sector and a better Kenya.