The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, in collaboration with Homa Bay County, is accelerating efforts to establish a flagship tourism facility at Ruma National Park. This initiative aims to elevate the park’s role as a central feature of Kenya’s Western Tourism Circuit, drawing attention to the rich biodiversity and unique experiences the area has to offer.
Strategic Focus on Diversifying Kenya’s Tourism
The plan to upscale Ruma National Park is a key part of Kenya’s broader strategy to diversify its tourism offerings. Traditionally, Kenya has been known for its beach resorts and safaris. However, there has been a concerted effort to explore new tourism products, with Homa Bay providing a compelling example of combining wildlife and sports tourism.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano highlighted the importance of moving beyond the traditional beach and safari experiences. She underscored how Homa Bay has successfully integrated wildlife and sports tourism, bringing together two powerful drivers of visitor attraction.
“Homa Bay has given us a unique fusion of wildlife and sports tourism. We have demonstrated to Kenya and the world the wealth of experiences that this county offers,” said Miano. The tourism sector, according to the CS, is ready for diversification, and Homa Bay’s example is proof of its potential.
Digital Mapping and Marketing Plans
To support this diversification, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife is prioritizing digital marketing initiatives. Through partnerships with county governments, Miano emphasized the importance of digital mapping of tourism products. The Ministry aims to market Homa Bay’s tourism attractions using international platforms to draw in more visitors and expand the region’s visibility globally.
Miano further stated that collaboration with the local government was key. “We are committed to working closely with Governor Gladys Wanga and her team. Our goal is to leverage international platforms to increase visitor numbers and ensure Homa Bay’s tourism thrives,” she affirmed.
The Western Tourism Circuit and Ruma National Park
The Western Tourism Circuit, which encompasses Homa Bay, Kakamega, Kisumu, and other counties around Lake Victoria, is rapidly becoming a significant pillar of Kenya’s tourism growth. Central to this circuit is Ruma National Park, a unique destination known for its rare biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Ruma is home to endangered species, including the Roan Antelope, with approximately 27 individuals safely conserved within a predator-proof sanctuary. In addition to the Roan Antelope, the park is the only place in Kenya to host Rothschild’s giraffe populations outside of Group Ranches near Lake Nakuru. Ruma also boasts both black and white rhinos, with 58 rhinos thriving in the park, further cementing its status as a critical biodiversity hotspot.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Accessibility
Ruma National Park is making great strides in accessibility, with 65 kilometers of roads and a 1.2-kilometer functional airstrip, ensuring visitors can easily explore the park. These infrastructure improvements are a crucial part of the ongoing efforts to position Ruma as a major tourist attraction in Kenya.
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General Dr. Erustus Kanga described Ruma National Park as a sanctuary unlike any other in the country. “Ruma is a unique place, traditionally known as the Lambwe Valley, offering visitors rare experiences in a pristine environment,” he said.
Partnership with County Governments and National Tourism Ambitions
CS Miano stressed the importance of county partnerships in realizing Kenya’s tourism ambitions. The Ministry aims for 5.5 million visitors annually, a target that requires every county to develop at least one flagship tourism product to world-class standards by year-end. “Homa Bay’s Ruma National Park will be among those flagship attractions,” Miano said.
In the meantime, the Annual Devolution Conference, taking place from August 13-15, is expected to generate a significant economic boost for Homa Bay. With over 10,000 delegates in attendance, the event is already creating a ripple effect on local businesses, as hotels and guesthouses in the lakeside town are fully booked, signaling a promising tourism upsurge.
Economic Impact and Long-Term Prospects
The development of Ruma National Park as a flagship attraction will not only contribute to the diversification of Kenya’s tourism offerings but also drive local economic growth. The initiatives underway will bolster Homa Bay’s tourism infrastructure, increase international exposure, and create job opportunities for the local population.
The successful development of Ruma National Park could also inspire other regions in Kenya to explore similar collaborations, contributing to a more balanced and resilient tourism sector that leverages the full range of the country’s natural and cultural assets.
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