Tourism CS Rebecca Miano says Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism through the adoption of electric safari vehicles, renewable energy and community-based conservation in wildlife areas.
Taking to her X account on Monday, the CS noted that Kenya was pioneering one of Africa’s largest transitions towards 100% electric mobility in conservation areas, as the country seeks to reduce the environmental impact of tourism while protecting its wildlife heritage.
“Kenya isn't just following the future of tourism—we are actively shaping it! Did you know that Kenya is pioneering one of Africa’s largest transitions toward 100% E-Mobility in Conservation Areas?” Miano posted.
She said the transition was already taking shape through electric safari vehicles in the Maasai Mara and solar-powered eco-lodges operating off the national electricity grid.
“From silent, electric safari vehicles gliding through the Maasai Mara to solar-powered eco-lodges operating entirely off the grid, our tourism sector is proving that world-class hospitality and bold environmental stewardship go hand in hand.”
Electric safari vehicles are still at an early stage in Kenya, with operators gradually expanding their fleets. Industry data published in May 2026 showed that one major safari operator had about 200 safari and transfer vehicles across East Africa, with roughly 95% still powered by fuel.
Its electric fleet included seven electric game-viewing vehicles at Emboo Camp in the Maasai Mara and another electric vehicle at Encounter Mara.
The shift is part of a wider move towards cleaner transport in Kenya.
The government launched its National Electric Mobility Policy in February 2026, describing electric vehicles as an important component of the transition towards a cleaner, more efficient and low-carbon transport system.
Miano explained that electric mobility could also improve wildlife viewing by reducing noise generated by conventional safari vehicles.
“These ‘silent’ electric safari vehicles significantly reduce noise pollution, allowing guests to get closer to wildlife without disturbing their natural behaviour,” she said.
The government sees sustainable tourism as increasingly important to the sector, which contributes about 10% of Kenya’s gross domestic product and employs about 9% of the country’s wage workforce, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife. The ministry says the sector needs to shift from traditional tourism products towards more sustainable forms of development and management.
Miano also emphasised the role of communities living around conservation areas, saying tourism should provide direct economic benefits while supporting environmental protection.
“Beyond technology, Kenya's sustainable model ensures tourism directly supports local conservancies, empowering neighbouring communities while real-time tracking and green energy adoption make our national parks safer for generations to come.”
Community conservancies are already recognised by the government as important partners in wildlife conservation, with community-based conservation intended to support ecosystems while improving livelihoods and reducing poverty.
The Kenya Wildlife Service's 2024-2028 strategic plan similarly identifies community participation, resilient ecosystems and expansion of the wildlife economy as priorities, with the government seeking to increase employment and economic benefits from conservation.
Miano explained that the shift towards lower-carbon travel could strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness as international tourists increasingly seek environmentally responsible experiences.
“As travel globally shifts towards mindful, low-carbon experiences, Kenya stands ready to show the world how travel can heal, preserve, and inspire,” she said.
The CS noted that the combination of electric mobility, renewable energy, technology and community participation could allow Kenya to expand tourism while protecting the ecosystems on which the industry depends.