Last Updated on October 2, 2025 by Turkana County News Online
Turkana County has come under sharp criticism after failing to showcase its tourism potential at the prestigious Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2025, held at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi from October 1st to 3rd.
Despite being allocated a fully equipped exhibition booth by the Kenya Tourism Board, the county’s stand remained deserted throughout the three-day event. No representatives whether from the Department of Tourism, the Executive Committee Member (CECM), the County Chief Officer (CCO), departmental directors, tourism officers, or even local exhibitors were present to market Turkana’s vast tourism assets.
The absence comes just days after World Tourism Day on September 27th, a global event marked by celebrations in many parts of Kenya, yet in Turkana County the day passed without any official activity or recognition. This has deepened concerns that the county government is neglecting opportunities to position Turkana as a competitive tourism destination.
The Magical Kenya Travel Expo, regarded as the country’s premier tourism exhibition, brought together county governments, international travel agents, tour operators, and investors to explore Kenya’s diverse destinations. Neighboring counties and other exhibitors used the platform to aggressively market their cultural heritage, natural attractions, and investment opportunities.
Turkana’s absence, however, meant the county lost a golden chance to spotlight its unique offerings, including Lake Turkana — a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Central Island National Park, Eliye Springs beaches, cultural festivals, desert landscapes, and the cradle of mankind archaeological sites at Nariokotome.
Tourism stakeholders expressed disappointment, saying the lapse reflects poorly on the county’s commitment to developing the sector, which has untapped potential to generate revenue, create jobs, and attract investment.
“This was the one platform to tell the world that Turkana is more than just stories of drought and insecurity. It has breathtaking sites and a rich culture that can attract both local and international tourists. Missing out was a serious setback,” said one tourism operator who attended the expo.
The incident has now raised questions about planning, accountability, and political will in promoting Turkana’s tourism industry, an area many experts believe could transform the region’s economy if effectively marketed.
