Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has criticised recent remarks by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of damaging Kenya’s image after he advised tourists and foreign investors to postpone visiting the country over security concerns.
Speaking during a church service in Kerugoya, Kirinyaga County, Gachagua claimed Kenya was experiencing insecurity and urged visitors to delay their travel plans until next year.
“Our tourists are not safe in our country. There are too many goons. Tourists should suspend their visits until next year,” he said.
He also discouraged foreign investment, saying, “Investors should keep away from Kenya. We are telling investors to stay away until next year.”
The government responded swiftly, dismissing the claims and insisting that Kenya remains a peaceful and reliable destination for both tourists and investors.
Addressing the media at Harambee Annex in Nairobi, Mwaura said statements that discourage travel and investment threaten the country’s economy and the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on the tourism industry.
“Leaders urging tourists to avoid certain parts of the country are threatening businesses and the thousands of Kenyans whose livelihoods depend on the tourism sector,” Mwaura said.
He maintained that the country’s tourism sector continues to perform well and urged leaders to avoid remarks that could undermine confidence in Kenya’s economy.
Mwaura also addressed what he described as misleading portrayals of Kenya by some foreign visitors. His comments followed the circulation of a video in which American actress Skai Jackson suggested that mirrors were beyond the reach of many Kenyans and claimed some children in rural areas saw their reflections for the first time through her mobile phone.
The government spokesperson rejected the claims, saying Kenya is a modern country with a skilled population, expanding digital connectivity and a growing economy.
He praised Kenyans for defending the country’s reputation on international platforms and social media, saying national pride continues to unite citizens despite political differences.
He further appealed for unity across the country, urging leaders to avoid rhetoric that could divide communities or isolate regions.
Mwaura said development initiatives are being implemented across the country and called on Kenyans to embrace dialogue in resolving political differences.
“Every region has a stake in the Kenya Kwanza administration and should continue working together to advance the country’s development agenda,” he said.
As political debate continues, the government has maintained that preserving Kenya’s image abroad is essential for attracting investment, growing tourism and sustaining economic progress, while calling on leaders to safeguard the country’s interests through responsible public statements.
