Wetangula released a statement after the meeting. He urged the Chinese Government to facilitate the visit of at least 5 million of its 1.2 billion citizens to Kenya. This would allow them to experience various tourist attractions, including wildlife and sandy beaches.
Wetangula expressed that this initiative aims to promote Kenya on the global stage. It seeks to strengthen diplomatic relations with China beyond just trade and infrastructure.
“In my efforts to further establish Kenya as a premier tourist destination, I appealed to Prof. Hao Ping. Along with the entire delegation, he aims to bolster the sector. They plan to send at least 5 million of the 1.2 billion citizens to Kenya to experience its captivating flora and fauna, pristine beaches, wildlife, and local culture, thereby enhancing the nation’s economic capacity,” he stated in a release.
Renowned for its vast savanna and home to the Big Five, along with stunning sandy beaches, Kenya attracts millions of international tourists annually, recording 1. 9 million visitors in 2023, and generating revenues of up to Ksh352. 5 billion in the sector.
The sector significantly contributes to job creation, with John Chirchir, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), estimating that one job is created for every visitor who arrives in the country.
Several government initiatives have been undertaken to enhance the foreign revenue stream, including the recent introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows foreigners to explore Kenya while working remotely through this special work permit.
During the delegation, Wetangula advocated for the two nations to sustain their trade relations and urged the Government of China to open its market to more of Kenya’s agricultural products.
“I encouraged the delegation to broaden engagements between the two countries to concentrate on trade and to facilitate access for Kenyan products in the Chinese market,” Wetangula remarked.
He further acknowledged China’s contributions to funding infrastructure projects in Kenya and across Africa, noting the significant impact of its investments on the continent.
“Reflecting on the Republic of China’s journey over the decades, I pointed out that Kenya, and Africa as a whole, has also completed its liberation journey, and the focus should now shift toward liberating its people from poverty and fostering self-reliance,” he added.
Focusing specifically on China’s role in Kenya, he commended China’s support in developing essential infrastructure, including the Expressway and various highways throughout the country.
“I expressed my gratitude for China’s involvement in several development initiatives in Kenya, highlighting the Expressway, which utilized diverse Chinese technology, as well as the highways constructed and enhanced by Chinese firms, alongside various water projects aimed at improving access to this vital resource for communities and livestock,” he stated.
Wetangula was accompanied by four other Members of Parliament: Rachael Nyamai, Makali Mulu, Kakai Bissau, and Julius Sunkuli, representing Kitui South, Kitui Central, Kiminini, and Kilgoris, respectively.
The Chinese delegation, led by Hao Ping, also included Ma Viming and Zhang Li.
