The Tourism Fund

Overview

The Tourism Fund is a Kenyan organization established under the Tourism Act of 2011 to support sustainable tourism development. Beginning operations in 2012, it is mandated to collect levies from tourism enterprises, providing resources for sector development and infrastructure improvement. Key roles include funding tourism-related projects, promoting training within the hospitality industry, and supporting marketing initiatives. By managing these resources, the Tourism Fund strengthens Kenya’s position as a top tourist destination while enhancing the quality of service and promoting sustainability across the tourism and hospitality sectors.

CEO: David Mwangi

David Mwangi is the CEO of the Tourism Fund in Kenya, specializing in project management and finance. He holds a degree in Business Administration and has significant experience in the tourism sector, driving initiatives focused on capacity building and sustainable development to enhance industry competitiveness.

Board of Governors

Samson K. Some

Chairperson

Sylas Tochim

Trustee

Dorcas Mbalanya

Trustee

Geoffrey Kibanda

Rep. PS National Treasury

Patrick M. Bucha

Rep. PS Sate Department for Tourism

Zippie Metto

Trustee

Joel Kamau

Trustee

Patrick Ngere

Trustee

Joseph Sarisar

Trustee

John Karanja

Rep. Inspectorate of State Corporation

Functions

  • Collect and Manage Tourism Levies: Gather levies from tourism and hospitality businesses to ensure continuous funding for the sector’s development.
  • Develop Tourism Infrastructure: Allocate resources to build and maintain essential tourism facilities, such as visitor centers, public restrooms, roads to attractions, and eco-friendly amenities.
  • Provide Financial Support to Enterprises: Offer grants and loans to tourism and hospitality businesses to support their growth and improve service quality, thereby enhancing the visitor experience.
  • Support Training and Capacity Building: Fund specialized training programs for hospitality professionals, such as chefs, tour guides, and managers, to improve skills and service standards in the industry.
  • Promote Sustainable Tourism Practices: Encourage environmentally responsible tourism by funding eco-friendly projects and supporting practices that conserve natural resources and protect biodiversity.
  • Enhance Tourism Marketing and Promotion: Allocate funds to support marketing initiatives, such as advertising campaigns, trade shows, and digital media, to boost Kenya’s image as a premier tourism destination.
  • Support Research and Development: Fund research initiatives that explore new tourism trends, assess industry performance, and offer insights to enhance Kenya’s tourism products and services.
  • Fund Development in Tourism Attraction Areas: Invest in the development and enhancement of natural and cultural tourist attractions to increase their appeal and accessibility for both local and international tourists.
  • Preserve Cultural and Historical Sites: Finance preservation efforts for culturally and historically significant sites, ensuring their upkeep and long-term survival as part of Kenya’s heritage.
  • Collaborate on Policy and Standards Development: Work with government agencies and industry stakeholders to shape policies, establish high standards, and set guidelines that foster growth and sustainability in the tourism sector.

Important Links

Address & Contacts

  • P.O. Box 46987-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
  • Tourism Fund Building – 5th and 6th Floors
  • Valley Road, Upper Hill
  • info@tourismfund.co.ke
  • +254 020 2978000