Kenya is looking to increase the number of tourists that visit the country from Asia, as it showcases its attractions in the upcoming Internationale Tourismus Borse-Asia (ITB-Asia)-Singapore expo, an official has said.

Jimi Kariuki, chairman of Kenya Tourism Board, said in a statement that his country had received good tourism numbers from the Asian market, but hopes to boost the figure even more as marketing programs have been laid out in the region.

"Our numbers from this market have shown good potential, in 2018, visitors from Asia to Kenya closed at 269,151 which translated to 13.3 percent of the total visitors into our country from the Asian region. We project these numbers to rise by 2025 because an estimated 90 million households in Asia are expected to become part of the global traveling class. This clearly indicates that we must position ourselves better to ensure we reap bigger from these numbers," said Kariuki.

Kenya has seen an increase in tourist numbers in the first quarter (July-September), pointing to a positive outlook at the close of 2019.

In that period, the East African country saw 604,690 international tourists arrive in the country, compared to 587,385 arrivals witnessed in the same period last year. This represents a 2.9 % increase.

"ITB –Asia tourism fair presents Kenya yet another opportunity to tap into Asia market that continues to show potential for growth. We are riding on our current positive image the country is enjoying globally to re-affirm our position as the preferred tourist destination as well as Kenya’s commitment to the improvement of the tourism business," said Kariuki.

About 12 companies from Kenya are expected to take part in the expo by showcasing Kenya's tourist attractions.

The ITB Asia expo will be held between 16 – 18 October at Marina Bay Sands.

(With input from KBC)