Stakeholders convene to discuss tourism security amid anti-govt demos

In light of growing security concerns and ongoing weekly demonstrations predominantly involving young people, over 200 tourism stakeholders have gathered in Mombasa to strategise on enhancing safety and security within the sector.

The high-profile meeting included representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), hoteliers, tour and beach operators, the Mombasa County government, the Tourism Research Institute, the Tourism Regulatory Authority, and the tourism traffic police unit, among others.

Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtua officially opened the meeting on Wednesday, emphasising the necessity for robust cooperation among all involved parties.

"This forum aims to equip stakeholders with essential knowledge and skills to address tourism safety and security issues effectively," said Ololtuaa

"Collaboration between government agencies, private sector entities, and community representatives is crucial for developing a comprehensive approach to tourism safety and security," he added.

Ololtuaa outlined several key objectives for the gathering, including the sharing of best practices both locally and internationally, adopting new technologies, enhancing infrastructure, improving communication strategies, and identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities within the tourism sector.

"Tourism safety and security significantly impact economic growth, social cohesion, and overall quality of life. By sharing knowledge and best practices, we can create a safer environment for tourists and locals alike,” he highlighted.

Representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), hoteliers, tourism traffic police unit, among others meet on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 in Mombasa to discuss security measures for the tourism sector. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

Ololtuaa also revealed that the ministry is developing and reviewing several policies and strategies to align with current sector dynamics. These include the review of the Tourism Policy and the Tourism Act, Cap 381, the development of a National Tourism Strategy, the creation of Tourism Master Plans and Area Development Plans, and the review of the strategic plan.

"In 2023, Kenya saw a positive trend in tourism, with 2.086 million international tourist arrivals, compared to 1.483 million in 2022, marking a 35.4 per cent increase. We expect this number to grow to 5 million by 2027," he noted. "Additionally, inbound earnings rose to Sh352.54 billion in 2023 from Sh268.09 billion in 2022, a 31.5 per cent increase, with projections of reaching Sh825 billion in 2024."

The meeting occurred during heightened tensions in the country, with youths leading weekly demonstrations to express their dissatisfaction with the government. Acknowledging the chaos that has ensued over the past three weeks, Ololtua called for unity and peace, underscoring that the tourism industry's success is contingent upon a stable and peaceful environment.

"I urge all Kenyans to maintain unity and peace. This industry can only thrive when there is peace," he stated.

Kenya Tourism Federation CEO Susan Ogalo also addressed the meeting, calling for enhanced cooperation between the police, the traffic department, and tour operators.

Ogalo emphasised the importance of sensitising police on handling tour operators and revealed that the federation has established security safety centres, which have played a significant role in ensuring tourist safety.

"We have not received any complaints of tourists being affected by the ongoing demonstrations. Through the safety centres, we have been able to advise our tour operators and tourists on safe routes and safety measures during the demonstrations.”

However, she raised concerns, noting, “We have had numerous complaints from our tour operators about harassment. Why should a traffic officer detain a tour operator transporting tourists for hours? This leads to unnecessary uncertainty and inconvenience."

Stakeholders in the tourism sector meet on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Mombasa to discuss security measures for the sector amid the nationwide protests (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)