The government attributes a surge in tourist numbers to the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, launched after President Ruto’s visa-free directive effective January 1, 2024. The system screens travelers before arrival and is managed through a public-private partnership with Travizory Border Security SA and Konvergence Network Solutions.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen revealed the provider earned Sh1.5 billion from the system, which generated Sh6.5 billion by February 25, 2025. For each standard ETA costing $30, the provider received $8.5, and $15 for the $160 US multiple ETA.
Hosted on eCitizen, the system has helped grow Kenya’s tourism sector, with 2.4 million international visitors recorded in 2024—a 15% increase from 2023—and tourism earnings rising nearly 20% to Sh452.2 billion.
