Nyeri activates Global Scout, Guide City Status, deepening Kenya–Korea engagement

Nyeri County in Kenya has activated its status as a Global Guide and Scout City, deepening ties between Kenya and Korea in areas such as tourism, culture, youth development, and people-to-people connections. This designation, which coincides with World Tourism Day 2026, follows the World Organization of the Scout Movement's formal recognition of Nyeri County as the Official Global Guide and Scout City of the World in March 2025.

Governor Mutahi Kahiga and Ambassador Kang Hyung-shik of the Republic of Korea attended the activation ceremony. Nyeri's association with the global Scout Movement dates back to Lord Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the movement, who spent his final years in the county. The activation ceremony highlighted Nyeri's rich scouting heritage, its connection to the World Scouts Parliamentary Union (WSPU), where Korea was among the founding countries.

The WSPU has facilitated parliamentary and scouting exchanges between Kenya and Korea, as well as a 11th WSPU General Assembly hosted by Kenya in 2025. The designation aims to enhance Nyeri's international visibility and create opportunities for collaboration in various sectors, including tourism, culture, education, agriculture, trade, investment, and technology.

A proposed Baden-Powell Center of Excellence, under a Memorandum of Understanding with the WSPU-Kenya, will support these areas and promote youth leadership and innovation.