Laikipia County – Laikipia, long famed for its rhinos and rugged beauty, is taking a fresh look at what it offers the world.
At the heart of Kenya’s central highlands, the county has become synonymous with wildlife. From the endangered Northern White Rhino to the elusive Black Leopard, it’s a sanctuary that draws conservationists and tourists alike. But local leaders say it’s time to go further.
During the first-ever Laikipia Tourism and Wildlife Expo held in Nanyuki, stakeholders gathered to map out a broader future for the region’s tourism. Their aim? A more inclusive industry one that doesn’t just show off wildlife but brings local communities, especially women and youth, into the fold.
“We want to tell more than just the safari story,” said Gilbert Mutembei, Chair of the Laikipia Tourism Association. “This is about culture, adventure, business, and giving every visitor a deeper connection to Laikipia.”
That vision includes promoting conference tourism. With Nanyuki sitting on the equator and offering easy access to Mount Kenya, organisers see potential in business travel, too.
“It’s not just about game drives anymore,” added Mutembei. “You can climb a mountain in the morning, attend a meeting in the afternoon, and explore a local market before dinner.”
The event was organised by the Laikipia Wildlife Forum, a coalition of local conservationists and entrepreneurs. It brought together hoteliers, tour operators, artisans, and policymakers all eager to reimagine how Laikipia tells its story.
Conservation Still Key
Even as the county diversifies, protecting its wild spaces remains central.
Stakeholders at the expo reaffirmed their commitment to conserving habitats that support iconic species like the Black Rhino, Grevy’s zebra, and over 700 bird species.
“Our natural heritage is what makes Laikipia special,” said conservationist Sarah Ndiritu, who works with community-led wildlife projects. “But we must balance tourism with sustainability, and that means involving those who live closest to the land.”
Community at the Core
Local traders showcased everything from hand-woven baskets to eco-friendly soaps. Many of these products are made by women’s groups and youth-led enterprises looking for a place in the tourism economy.
“Tourism can feel out of reach to many small businesses,” said Miriam Wanjiku, who runs a cooperative producing organic honey. “This expo gave us a chance to connect directly with hotels and tour operators. That matters.”
There was a clear message throughout the day: Laikipia is ready to move beyond a one-dimensional tourism model. Not by abandoning its wild wonders but by placing people at the centre of the experience.
As Kenya’s tourism sector recovers post-pandemic, regions like Laikipia are betting that what sets them apart is not just what visitors come to see but who they come to meet.
