Kenya Announce Plan to Privatise Select Beaches and Islands to Boost Tourism

The Kenyan government plans to privatise select public beaches and islands to attract investment, create jobs, and boost tourism revenue, while critics warn it may compromise public access and environmental preservation.

The Kenyan government has unveiled plans to privatise select public beaches and islands through private ownership, concessions, and long-term leases as part of its National Tourism Strategy 2025–2030.

The initiative aims to attract high-end investors, create 2.5 million jobs, and generate KSh 1.2 trillion in revenue by 2030. Targeted sites are set to host luxury eco-resorts, marine facilities, and other premium tourism infrastructure, with investors required to adhere to strict environmental and sustainability standards.

While officials describe the move as a bold step to enhance Kenya’s global tourism competitiveness, critics warn it risks “selling the soul of the coast for profit,” potentially limiting public access to some of the nation’s most cherished coastal areas.

Tourism analysts say the plan could transform Kenya’s coastline into a hub for luxury and eco-friendly development, but balancing economic growth with environmental preservation and local community interests remains a critical challenge. As Kenya seeks to position itself as a leading destination in Africa, the strategy highlights the tension between development ambitions and safeguarding public heritage.