Jitters in tourism sector over new visitors’ insurance requirement
Cofek is seeking suspension of policy affecting all foreign visitors entering Kenya...
✨ Key Highlights
Kenya's tourism sector is experiencing unease following the government's introduction of a mandatory health insurance requirement for all foreign visitors, a move now facing a legal challenge.
- The new directive, effective from July 30, 2026, mandates a travel health insurance policy with a minimum benefit limit of $50,000 (approximately Sh6.5 million).
- The Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) has filed a lawsuit seeking to suspend the implementation, citing a lack of public participation and transparency.
- Tourism stakeholders, including hoteliers and tour operators, express concerns that this additional cost could make Kenya a less competitive travel destination.
Continue Reading
Read the complete article from Nation Business
Part of the Day's Coverage
Tourism Sector Challenges Mount Over Mandatory Insurance Rule - August 2026
Kenya's tourism sector is experiencing significant concern following the government's introduction of a mandatory health insurance requirement for all foreign visitors, a move now facing a legal challenge. The policy has created uncertainty among industry players about implementation and potential impacts on visitor numbers. Kenyan insurtech firms have meanwhile raised Sh8.5 billion over the past five years, indicating growing investor appetite for insurance technology in the region. Separately, the CEO of Capital DT Sacco Society Ltd, Stephen Murithi, was charged with the alleged theft of Sh39 million belonging to the cooperative society, highlighting ongoing challenges in Kenya's financial sector.
