Tourism Principal Secretary Advocates for Enhanced Tourism Safety At Eldoret Workshop -12/7/2024

The Principal Secretary (PS), State Department for Tourism, John Ololtuaa, has emphasized on the critical importance of safety and security in sustaining the sector’s growth.

The PS said this in a speech read on his behalf by the Tourism Secretary, Dr. Patrick Bucha, during the North Rift region stakeholders’ Tourism Safety and Security Capacity Building Workshop, held in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, today.

“The tourism sector is a vital pillar of our economy, providing jobs, generating income, and showcasing the beauty and diversity of our nation,” he stated.

Highlighting its economic impact, the PS added that tourism accounts for 10.4% of the country’s GDP and provides approximately 2.3 million jobs.

The Principal Secretary noted Kenya’s remarkable recovery in tourism, with 2.086 million international arrivals in 2023, a 35.4% increase from the previous year. He projected further growth, expecting arrivals to reach 5 million by 2027 and inbound earnings to soar to Kshs. 825 billion by 2024.

To ensure this growth, the PS stated that the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife is working closely with the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to strengthen security measures.

“We are leveraging technology and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to enhance safety in tourist hotspots,” he explained.

The training aimed to equip stakeholders with skills in risk management and emergency response, fostering a cohesive approach to tourism safety.

“A safe environment enhances the visitor experience and builds a strong reputation, encouraging repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth,” the PS added.

Emphasizing product development and diversification, he announced initiatives like the Kenya Home of Human Origins program, which collaborates with county governments to develop cultural tourism. The program aims to showcase archaeological findings at the Lake Turkana Basin, bolstering infrastructure in the northern tourism frontier.

Marketing efforts are also in full swing under the “Magical Kenya” brand, with widespread campaigns and collaborations with global influencers.

“Our focus is to revamp the tourism sector with strategies that impact a wider population, improving livelihoods,” added the PS.

The training marks a significant step in ensuring Kenya’s tourism sector remains resilient, secure, and attractive to visitors worldwide.