The Kenya Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka today celebrated a major milestone, welcoming its 1,000,000th visitor since the global showcase began in April. The milestone was marked by the arrival of Dr. Mayu Shimaguchi, a 42-year-old abdominal surgeon from Chiba Prefecture, Japan, who was recognized with a ceremonial welcome and a special gift pack featuring iconic Kenyan products.

Dr. Shimaguchi, who expressed a deep interest in nature, world heritage, and outdoor activities like scuba diving and hiking, was visiting the pavilion to explore Kenya’s biodiversity and rich cultural heritage. “I’ve always been fascinated by wild animals like lions, giraffes, and elephants. The Kenya Pavilion has brought that dream closer,” she said. She noted that she hopes to visit Kenya in the near future with her partner, a physiotherapist, to explore the country firsthand.

In a very special announcement, as the 1,000,000th visitor, Dr. Shimaguchi has been awarded an unforgettable one-week visit to Kenya, sponsored by Adequate Safaris and the Kenya Tourism Board in partnership with KEPROBA. She will receive a fully curated “Magical Kenya Experience,” showcasing the best of Kenya’s wildlife, culture, and hospitality.

Commissioner General of the Kenya Pavilion and CEO of the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA), Ms. Floice Mukabana, praised the milestone as a testament to Kenya’s growing appeal on the global stage. “This moment not only marks a successful halfway point in our Expo journey, but reflects the compelling story Kenya is sharing with the world; one of innovation, culture, and opportunity,” said Ms. Mukabana.

The Kenya Pavilion, located in the Empowering Lives Zone (P03), has become one of the most visited among African nations, drawing interest through immersive exhibits on Kenya’s economic transformation, renewable energy, ICT, tourism, and export-ready products like tea, coffee, and cut flowers.

As the Expo enters its second half, Kenya aims to surpass the 2 million visitor mark by October 2025. The Pavilion’s momentum is being boosted by ongoing thematic months offering Kenya’s ongoing projects visibility to Japanese investors.

This marks a dramatic leap from the 523,000 total visitors recorded at the Kenya Pavilion during Expo 2020 Dubai (held in 2021–2022), which was impacted by the global COVID-19 pandemic. The surge in attendance at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan highlights renewed global interest in Kenya's dynamic economic sectors, including tourism, renewable energy, and trade.

Under the Expo's overarching theme, "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," Kenya is demonstrating its commitment to sustainable growth and inclusive innovation. The Pavilion has hosted a series of high-impact events, including a mini-marathon featuring elite Kenyan athletes, and exhibits that reflect Kenya's progress in green energy, agribusiness, and cultural heritage.

Moreover, Kenya is actively using the Expo to bridge the trade deficit with Japan and attract Japanese investment. This is crucial for Kenya's economic development and aligns with its Vision 2030 objectives. Kenya can also learn valuable lessons from Japan's experience in achieving global innovation while preserving its cultural heritage.