Celebrating 3 Decades of Responsible Tourism Leadership

 

(Posted 29th August 2026)

 

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Since 1996, Ecotourism Kenya has championed a tourism sector that benefits people, protects nature, and strengthens local economies.

As we mark this milestone, we celebrate the members, partners, and individuals who have been part of our journey.

Join us in the coming weeks, as we reflect on thirty years of impact and look ahead to the future of responsible tourism in Kenya. To start us off, a message from Lynnet Kamonde, Chief Executive Officer:

 

As Ecotourism Kenya marks 30 years of promoting sustainable tourism, conservation and responsible travel, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride as we reflect on the journey that has brought us this far.

What began as a seed planted by visionary individuals who believed that tourism could be a force for conservation, communities and sustainable development has grown, blossomed and continued to make an impact. Over the past three decades, Ecotourism Kenya(EK) has evolved into a respected voice in sustainable tourism, working alongside our members, communities, government, development partners and other stakeholders to champion a tourism sector that benefits both people and nature.

Our journey has been one of growth, learning, resilience and transformation. We have celebrated many achievements, navigated challenges and embraced new opportunities. Through initiatives such as Ecorating Certification, Ecowarrior Awards, Ecotourism Kenya Sustainable Tourism Forum, Community Outreach and Engagement, Leadership and Mentorship, Climate Resilience and Policy, Research & Advocacy, we have continued to strengthen our commitment to making tourism a positive force for Kenya.

As we celebrate this important milestone, we do not only look back at how far we have come; we also look ahead. The seeds planted 30 years ago have blossomed into a lasting legacy. Today, we are called to plant seeds of innovation, impact and transformation for generations to come.

The future calls upon us to be bold, innovative and collaborative. It calls upon us to strengthen sustainability, embrace emerging opportunities, respond to the realities of climate change, protect our natural and cultural heritage, uphold human rights and ensure that tourism creates meaningful and lasting benefits for communities.

I extend my sincere appreciation to our founders, past and present leaders, members, staff, partners, supporters and all those who have walked this journey with Ecotourism Kenya. Your contribution, commitment and belief in EK’s vision have helped shape the organization we are today.

As we celebrate 30 years, let us honour the seeds that were planted before us, celebrate how they have bloomed, and together sow the seeds that will shape the next chapter of Ecotourism Kenya.

The journey continues. The possibilities are greater. And the best is yet to come.

Happy 30th Anniversary, Ecotourism Kenya!

Lynnet Kamonde

Chief Executive Officer

Ecotourism Kenya

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