Tourism CS Rebecca Miano Meets Kakamega Heritage Foundation to Strengthen Forest Conservation and Sustainable Tourism

 

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, EGH, today hosted the Kakamega Heritage Foundation (KHF) as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance environmental conservation and promote sustainable tourism in Kenya’s only tropical rainforest, the Kakamega Forest.

KHF, a dedicated Non-Governmental Organization, has been working closely with national and county stakeholders to safeguard the forest’s endangered ecosystem. During the meeting, the organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government initiatives geared toward protecting the forest while empowering surrounding communities.

CS Miano noted that Kakamega Forest holds exceptional ecological and tourism value, describing it as a globally significant natural asset whose conservation is crucial. She emphasized that the forest’s strategic location within Kenya’s Western Tourism Circuit positions it as a cornerstone for promoting responsible, nature-based tourism—an approach that not only preserves biodiversity but also ensures that local communities benefit directly from tourism activities.

“Kakamega Forest is more than just a destination; it is a living heritage whose protection requires collective responsibility,” CS Miano said, assuring KHF of the Ministry’s continued collaboration and partnership in conservation and tourism promotion.

She added that strengthening such partnerships is key to driving sustainable development in regions that traditionally experience lower tourist traffic, ensuring equitable growth across the country.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing plans to enhance visibility and accessibility of Kakamega Forest as an ecotourism attraction under the Magical Kenya brand, reinforcing Kenya’s identity as a land where nature, culture, and conservation converge.

The Ministry and KHF agreed to continue working closely to implement joint initiatives that will support conservation, improve tourism infrastructure, and elevate Kakamega Forest as a model for sustainable tourism in Kenya.