Kenya eyes 2 million visitors at Osaka Expo after hitting one million milestone

The symbolic visitor, Dr. Mayu Shimaguchi, a 42-year-old surgeon from Chiba Prefecture in Japan, was received with a ceremonial welcome and a gift pack featuring signature Kenyan products. 

“I’ve always been fascinated by wild animals like lions, giraffes, and elephants. The Kenya Pavilion has brought that dream closer,” she said, adding that she hopes to visit Kenya soon with her partner to explore its nature and culture firsthand.

The Kenya Pavilion, under the stewardship of Commissioner General Floice Mukabana, has emerged as one of the most visited African showcases at the Osaka Expo. Located in the Empowering Lives Zone, the Pavilion has become a magnet for international guests, thanks to immersive displays highlighting Kenya’s advances in green energy, tourism, ICT, agribusiness, and manufacturing.

“This milestone marks not only the halfway point in our Expo journey but also the power of Kenya’s story to attract global attention,” said Ms. Mukabana, who also serves as CEO of the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA).

 “Now, our focus shifts to the next big goal—welcoming two million visitors before the Expo closes in October”added Mukabana

The surge in attendance-already nearly double the 523,000 recorded during Expo 2020 Dubai—is a testament to Kenya’s renewed global visibility. Organisers attribute the rise in numbers to strategic programming, high-impact events, and successful investor engagements throughout the Pavilion’s themed months.

Kenya is using its Expo platform to woo Japanese investors, promote its Vision 2030 development agenda, and narrow the trade deficit between the two nations. Events such as a mini-marathon featuring elite Kenyan athletes, and exhibits on Kenya’s renewable energy, cultural richness, and export-ready products, have elevated the Pavilion’s profile.

Under the Expo’s theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” Kenya is positioning itself as a future-facing economy that blends innovation with tradition. The country is also drawing lessons from Japan’s success in achieving global competitiveness while preserving cultural identity.

As foot traffic continues to grow, Kenya’s two million visitor target now appears within reach—setting the stage for an even stronger finish and deeper diplomatic and trade ties with Japan and the wider Asia-Pacific region.