30 October 2023
The travel sector has experienced a remarkable recovery of up to 90% from the impacts of Covid-19, according to the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), demonstrating the industry’s resilience and the immense potential for growth ahead. This came up during a comprehensive familiarization meeting that the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Tourism and Wildlife, Dr. Alfred Mutua, conducted on Monday 30 October 2023 with the Kenya Association of Travel Agents.
In the course of the discussions, the allocation of landing rights for airlines seeking direct flights to Kenya emerged as a pressing matter, and the CS promised to look into it.
“We are dedicated to fostering an environment that ensures Kenya remains a premier destination for global travelers. I therefore pledge to bring this matter to my fellow colleagues in the cabinet, and we will endeavor to find an equitable and efficient solution,” said Mutua who had the Principal Secretary (State Department for Tourism), John Ololtuaa and the Tourism Secretary, Dr. Patrick Bucha on his entourage.
In another fruitful meeting with the Tourism Regulatory Authority also on Monday, the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Tourism and Wildlife, Dr. Alfred Mutua, recognized the need for a substantial overhaul of the current hotel classification methodology. “We need a more refined approach that goes beyond ticking checkboxes,” said CS Mutua.
The consensus was clear; some hotels have been assigned star ratings that don’t truly reflect their quality and standards. The Tourism Regulatory Authority assured that it is ready to embark on a fresh reclassification process, utilizing a new set of criteria. These efforts underscore the Ministry’s dedication to showcase the exceptional quality and services offered by Kenya’s tourism industry, by providing a more robust and fair system that benefits both tourists and the hospitality sector.
In another insightful meeting with the Tourism Fund Board on the same day, the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Tourism and Wildlife, Dr. Alfred Mutua, discussed the need to broaden the tourism horizons in Turkana County.
CS Mutua stressed on the significance of preserving Turkana’s historical importance while implementing innovative strategies to enhance its appeal as a destination. The Tourism Fund plays a vital role in mobilizing resources and financing projects that drive the growth of Kenya’s tourism sector.
“It is crucial that these projects align with the Kenya Kwanza administration’s bottom-up approach, uplifting local communities and promoting economic development at the grassroot level,” said CS Mutua.
The CS also added that the Ministry’s vision is to foster an inclusive and sustainable tourism, that harnesses the diverse potential of the nation.
“By doing so, we can create a thriving tourism landscape that benefits both the local communities and the adventurous travelers exploring the wonders of Kenya,” added Mutua. Also present was the Principal Secretary, State Department for Tourism, John Ololtuaa, and the Tourism Secretary, Dr. Patrick Bucha.