Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Wildlife and Tourism, Rebecca Miano, has been ranked the best-performing CS in the 2025 Mizani Africa Performance Index, emerging at the very top with an impressive 71.2% rating. The annual index, which evaluates the effectiveness, leadership, and public impact of Cabinet Secretaries, placed Miano ahead of her peers, highlighting the strong public confidence and sectoral progress achieved under her leadership.
A Testament to Steady, Results-Driven Leadership
Rebecca Miano’s rise to the top of the rankings did not come as a surprise to many observers. Since taking over the Wildlife and Tourism docket, she has overseen programs aimed at revitalising the sector, improving community engagement, and strengthening conservation efforts at a time when tourism globally is still recovering from recent economic disruptions.
Her score of 71.2% reflects positive public perception of her work, as well as the ministry’s visible accomplishments from wildlife protection strategies to renewed marketing efforts that position Kenya strongly on the global tourism map.
Mizani Africa’s Performance Index: What It Measures
The Mizani Africa Performance Index evaluates various Government ministries and officials based on measurable output, public satisfaction, leadership effectiveness, responsiveness to citizen needs, and the alignment of policies with national priorities.
This year’s index placed greater emphasis on:
- Service delivery and ministry efficiency
- Implementation of flagship government programs
- Public communication and accountability
- Impact of decisions on citizens and national development
Rebecca Miano’s high rating signals that her ministry has excelled in key areas and maintained consistency in delivering on its mandate.
Driving Growth in Tourism and Conservation
Under Miano’s watch, the tourism sector has benefited from targeted campaigns aimed at increasing visitor numbers, both domestically and internationally. Her ministry has also supported sustainable tourism initiatives, promoting conservation while empowering communities living near protected areas.
Several reforms implemented in the last year have helped strengthen coordination between wildlife agencies, private tourism operators, and conservation partners. These efforts contribute to the positive evaluation reflected in the Mizani Africa report.
Public Reaction and Broader Significance
The ranking has sparked mixed conversations online, with many Kenyans applauding Miano’s work ethic, humility, and policy-driven style of leadership. Her recognition is also seen as a nod to the potential of women leaders in senior government positions, especially within sectors traditionally dominated by men.
For the government, the index serves as feedback on what ministries are performing well and where improvements are needed. For citizens, it provides an independent assessment of how public officials are delivering on their responsibilities.
What This Ranking Means for the Wildlife and Tourism Sector
Being named the top-performing Cabinet Secretary places greater attention — and expectations on Miano’s docket. As the tourism sector continues to stabilize and expand, her leadership will remain crucial in driving policy reforms, enhancing conservation strategies, and positioning Kenya as a premier global destination.
With the 2025 ranking now public, many will be watching to see how the ministry builds upon this momentum in the coming year.
