Principal Secretary in the State Department for Tourism, John Ololtuaa has pledged the state’s support in promoting sustainable tourism practices throughout Kenya’s destination sites.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Assistant Director of Tourism in the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, Munyithya Kimwele, the PS termed sustainable tourism as a collective responsibility, adding that the Ministry is hoping to partner with the private sector to create an environment that will foster sustainable tourism growth in the country.
According to PS Ololtuaa, the government has already set the wheels of the initiative in motion through the enactment of the Climate Change Act which he said will play a pivotal role in conserving the country’s biodiversity.
Further, the PS said that once signed into law, the Carbon Credit Trading and Benefit Sharing Bill will promote the reduction of the carbon footprint of tourism activities as well as champion the use of renewable energy by players in the sector.
The Bill will also create a reward scheme which will see communities and tourism sector players, who have contributed to the global efforts of combating climate change, get compensated for their conservation efforts.
“Sustainable tourism is no longer a niche or an optional practice, it is a necessity. By embracing sustainable practices that mitigate the effects of climate change, we can safeguard these treasures for future generations,” stated the PS.
“Financing sustainability is a major challenge, but it is also an opportunity for growth and development. By investing in green infrastructure and supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability, we can create jobs, stimulate local economies, and enhance the overall visitor experience,” he added.
In addition to climate change adaption measures, the PS also mooted plans to make tourism sites more inclusive and accessible to people living with disability. This according to PS Ololtuaa, will expand the market by tapping into a niche that was previously overlooked.
“Ensuring that our destinations are inclusive and welcoming to all travelers not only expands our market but also embodies the principles of equity and respect. We must continue to work towards removing barriers and creating environments where everyone can enjoy the beauty and wonder of our country,” he said.
The PS’s keynote remarks were delivered at the official opening of Ecotourism Kenya’s Sustainable Tourism Forum. The 26th Edition brought together professionals from tourism, hospitality, conservation and leisure sectors together with government agencies with the aim of exploring and advancing sustainable tourism practices.
This year’s forum, which is themed Accelerating the Shift Towards Sustainable Tourism, comes at a time when the industry players are recovering from the after effects of the El-nino rains.
The two-day meeting is also taking place at a time when industry players are ramping up their efforts towards making the tourism sector more sustainable by ensuring minimal negative impact to the environment and safeguarding the country’s rich cultural heritage across all tourism destination sites with the PS challenging the participants to ensure that tourism continues to be a force for good.
“As we gather to discuss and strategize on critical issues such as climate change, sustainability financing, certification, accessibility for people with disabilities, and the promotion of local communities, we are taking vital steps to ensure that tourism continues to be a force for good. Our collective efforts will not only preserve our natural and cultural heritage but also enhance the economic resilience of our communities,” said PS Ololtuaa.
By Dennis Maloba (PCO)
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