The main gate at the Nairobi National Park.
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KWS
The government has dismissed calls by Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua urging tourists and investors to stay away from Kenya, maintaining that the country remains stable, secure and open for business.
Speaking on Monday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said Kenya continues to enjoy peace and political stability, urging citizens to safeguard the country’s image instead of making statements that could hurt key sectors of the economy.
Mwaura condemned attempts to discourage tourists and investors from coming to Kenya, saying such remarks undermine economic growth, threaten jobs, and could negatively affect investor confidence.
“Kenya remains a preferred destination for tourism, trade and investment, with our growing tourism sector, strong diplomatic standing and continued economic expansion reflecting the confidence the world has in our country,” Mwaura said.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura during an interview on Radio 47 on June 23, 2025.
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Isaac Mwaura
The government’s response comes a day after Gachagua urged tourists and investors to suspend visits to Kenya until next year, claiming the country was no longer safe because of rising insecurity, which he blamed on the government.
Speaking during a church service at ACK St Thomas Cathedral in Kerugoya, Gachagua told tourists to postpone their travel plans and advised investors to hold off on investments until 2027.
The former Deputy President made the remarks shortly after hisparty’s victory in the Ol Kalou parliamentaryby-election, which he described as a political contest between President William Ruto and the Mt Kenya region.
His remarks have since sparked debate, with tourism and foreign investment remaining among Kenya’s key
Analysts have warned that statements casting doubt on the country’s security could affect investor confidence and the tourism sector.
While responding to Gachagua’s remarks, Mwaura pointed toKenya’s recent economic performance, noting that the economy expanded by 5.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, driven by strong growth in manufacturing, agriculture, construction and the services sector.
Mwaura further called on Kenyans to embrace dialogue, national unity and peaceful coexistence, saying the country’s progress depends on stable institutions and a conducive environment for investment.
He maintained that Kenya remains safe, open for business and an attractive destination for tourists and investors despite the ongoing political differences.
DCP party boss Rigathi Gachagua during a party event on July 8, 2026.
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DCP
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