Kenya has slashed its visa cost for UK nationals by 50%, from US$50 (£35) to US$25 (£18); fees will be waived completely for children under 16.

The reduction, which comes into effect from 1 April 2009, will stand until the end of 2010, in a bid to attract more visitors to the country.

As well as the global financial crisis, Kenya is battling to undo the damage caused by the December 2007 riots. The country hopes a lower entry free may help.

Last year’s decline in tourist numbers caused widespread unemployment in the Kenyan tourism industry. There were also concerns that wildlife poaching in reserves and national parks would increase due to a reduction in ranger numbers.

Revenue from tourism fell by 54% in 2008 compared to the year before.

Kenya United kingdom