British-Nigerian actor Jimmy Akingbola has expressed his admiration for Kenya following his first visit to the country, describing the experience as unforgettable.

The actor, known for his roles in Bel-Air and Ted Lasso, shared his excitement on social media, saying the trip opened his eyes to Kenya’s beauty, hospitality and luxury tourism offerings.

“Dear Kenya, I get it now,” he wrote, adding that the experience brought him “a million memories” and left him speechless.

Akingbola also referenced his encounter with four of Kenya’s Big Five wildlife animals, highlighting the country’s appeal as a destination for wildlife experiences and tourism.

“Some experiences are impossible to explain. You just have to feel them,” he said.

The actor credited Umutoni Official for bringing him to East Africa and introducing him to the magic of Kenya.

He described the journey as an opportunity to showcase African luxury, excellence and hospitality on a global stage, drawing attention to the continent’s growing appeal to international travellers seeking premium experiences.

His visit also places the spotlight on Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings, which range from wildlife safaris and scenic landscapes to luxury hotels and personalised hospitality experiences.

For Kenya, attracting international personalities such as Akingbola provides an opportunity to showcase the country beyond its traditional safari image, presenting it as a destination where wildlife, culture and high-end travel experiences meet.

The actor’s enthusiastic reaction adds to the growing visibility of Kenya as a travel destination for visitors seeking memorable experiences across East Africa.

Although brief, his message captured the impact of a first encounter with the country, suggesting that Kenya’s appeal extends beyond its famous wildlife to the overall experience of visiting.

For Akingbola, the trip was more than a getaway. It was an introduction to a destination he says he now understands in a new light.