Kenya has announced a series of bold moves to boost its tourism, economy and culture as it marks 60 years of independence from British colonial rule.
Starting from January 2024, visitors to Kenya from across the world will no longer require a visa, President William Ruto said on Tuesday. He said his government had developed a digital platform to ensure all visitors would receive an electronic travel authorisation in advance.
"This is a historic decision that will make Kenya more accessible and attractive to the global community. We want to welcome everyone to experience the beauty, diversity and hospitality of our country," Ruto said.
He added that the visa-free policy would also benefit Kenyans who wish to travel abroad, as it would encourage reciprocal arrangements from other countries.
The president also defended the high taxes the government recently imposed, calling them a "necessary sacrifice" in helping the country deal with ballooning foreign debt which now stands at $70 billion.
He said the taxes were part of a comprehensive economic recovery plan that would create jobs, improve infrastructure and enhance social services.
"We have to make tough choices to secure our future. We cannot continue to borrow and spend without generating enough revenue. We have to live within our means and invest in our people," he said.
He urged Kenyans to support the government's efforts and to celebrate the achievements of the past 60 years.
"We have come a long way since we gained our independence in 1963. We have overcome many challenges and made great strides in democracy, education, health, agriculture, sports and innovation. We have a lot to be proud of as a nation," he said.
He also announced that the Grammy Awards, the prestigious music awards ceremony, will from January 2024 begin shooting multiple movies in Kenya. He said Hollywood's innovation studio agreed to partner with Kenya to elevate talents and showcase the country's rich culture and scenery.
"This is a huge opportunity for our creative industry and our tourism sector. We have so many talented artists, actors, directors, producers and technicians who deserve to be recognised and supported. We also have stunning locations, wildlife and heritage that can inspire and entertain the world," he said.
He said the government would provide incentives and facilitation for the film projects and ensure that they adhere to the highest standards of quality and ethics.
He expressed his gratitude to the Grammy Awards and the innovation studio for choosing Kenya as their destination and partner.
"We are honoured and excited to host the Grammy Awards and to collaborate with them on these amazing projects. We look forward to welcoming them to our country and to sharing our stories and songs with them and the world," he said.
He invited Kenyans and the international community to follow the news and updates on the film projects and the Grammy Awards on various websites and social media platforms.
He also encouraged Kenyans to continue to follow the health guidelines and protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19, which has claimed over 10,000 lives in the country.
He said the government was working hard to procure and distribute more vaccines and to improve the health system's capacity and resilience.
He concluded his speech by wishing Kenyans a happy and peaceful Jamhuri Day, the national day that commemorates the country's independence.
"Let us celebrate our freedom, our unity and our diversity. Let us embrace our opportunities, our challenges and our potential. Let us work together to build a prosperous, peaceful and progressive Kenya. God bless you all. God bless Kenya," he said.
