Kenyans may soon have to pay to access some beaches and islands as the government plans to privatize parts of the coast under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
The plan, outlined in the Kenya National Tourism Strategy (2025–2030), aims to attract investors to develop and manage selected beaches and islands to boost tourism and the economy.
Five beaches and four islands have been identified. The Ministry of Tourism will also introduce a new beach classification system with four types — exclusive, family and leisure, ecotourism and cultural, and adventure and sports.
Exclusive beaches such as Vipingo, Kuruwitu, Tiwi, and Msambweni will target high-end tourists with private villas and resorts. Family beaches like Diani, Nyali, Bamburi, and Watamu will stay public but get better facilities.
Chale, Funzi, Kiwayu, and Manda Toto islands are among those marked for privatization.
The government also plans to upgrade Malindi Airport to international status, improve Ukunda and Lamu airstrips, and open Moi International Airport to more airlines. Roads and signs leading to coastal areas will also be improved.
Officials say the plan will attract investment, create jobs, and grow the tourism sector.
By Vivian K.