Kenya's New Insurance Rule for Tourists Raises Concerns Over Tourism Impact
The Kenyan government has introduced a new regulation requiring foreign visitors to obtain mandatory travel health insurance with a minimum benefit limit of $50,000 (Sh6.5 million). This rule, outlined in Gazette Notice No.11492 and signed by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, mandates that all non-Kenyans staying in the country for less than 12 months must have an inbound travel health insurance policy from insurers approved under Kenya's Insurance Act. The insurance covers various medical expenses, including emergency medical transportation and repatriation of mortal remains. The regulation aims to ensure that foreign visitors can access healthcare without burdening local hospitals or the state with medical bills. However, the new requirement has sparked debate about its potential impact on Kenya's competitiveness as a tourism destination.