Nairobi Hospital Hosts Pivotal Medical Tourism Forum to Strengthen Kenya’s Global Competitiveness

By Bruno Aero 

The Nairobi Hospital, in collaboration with Magical Kenya and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), hosted a high-profile Medical Tourism Forum, bringing together key players in healthcare, tourism, and government to explore opportunities for positioning Kenya as a leading medical tourism destination.

The forum, held at The Nairobi Hospital’s Amphitheatre, attracted medical specialists, hospital executives, travel and hospitality partners, and county representatives, who engaged in discussions on growth strategies, industry challenges, and the role of collaboration in boosting Kenya’s medical tourism sector.

According to Ken Research, the global medical tourism market is projected to surpass Ksh 5.2 trillion ($40 billion) by 2025, driven by rising healthcare disparities, an ageing global population, and advancements in medical technology. Currently, Kenya attracts around 5,000 medical tourists annually, primarily from neighboring countries, with stakeholders now seeking to formalize and expand the sector’s growth.

Speaking at the forum,

Mr. Samuel Odede, OGW, Director of Medical Services & Research at The Nairobi Hospital, emphasized Kenya’s strengths in attracting international patients seeking high-quality healthcare services.

> “Kenya boasts world-class medical facilities, skilled specialists, and advanced healthcare infrastructure. By fostering collaboration between the tourism and healthcare sectors, we can develop a thriving medical tourism industry that not only boosts our economy but also enhances healthcare services for both local and international patients,” said Mr. Odede.

During the event, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) unveiled its Medical Tourism Strategy, detailing key focus areas and initiatives to enhance Kenya’s visibility as a trusted healthcare destination. A panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Muthuri Kinyamu, CEO of Accessible Travel, provided a platform for government officials, medical experts, and industry leaders to share insights and policy recommendations.

The forum concluded with a call for increased investment in marketing, improved regulatory frameworks, and strategic partnerships to drive Kenya’s medical tourism growth. As the host venue, The Nairobi Hospital reaffirmed its commitment to medical excellence and delivering world-class healthcare services to international patients.