Meru County’s hospitality sector is experiencing one of its strongest years yet, buoyed by high profile national events that have pumped millions into the local economy.
County officials credit the growth to an enabling business environment created under Governor Isaac Mutuma’s administration.
This year, Meru played host to key national gatherings, including the 97th Kenya National Music Festivals in August, which ran for nearly two weeks across multiple venues and attracted more than 150,000 visitors.
The influx is estimated to have injected roughly Ksh 250 million into the local economy.
Just months later, the County Assemblies Sports Association (CASA) games brought MCAs and officials from all 47 counties to Meru between November 22 and 29, offering another major boost to hotels, eateries, transport operators and other service providers.
During a cocktail and Christmas tree lighting event at Meru Slopes Hotel over the weekend, County Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Mbijjiwe and Health Executive Dr. Dennis Mugambi said the string of national events had significantly elevated the county’s hospitality profile.
Dr. Mbijjiwe praised hotel director Rose Kirimi and General Manager Lawrence Amutala for appreciating their clients, noting that the county government continued to partner with local establishments.
“We have been deliberate about supporting our hotels. When we host seminars or meetings, we bring that business here,” he said.
He added that feedback from the music festivals showed visitors were impressed by the quality of accommodation and services within Meru.
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Meru Slopes Hotel director Rose Kirimi said their 55-bed facility, equipped with four conference rooms and three restaurants, had benefitted greatly from the CASA games and other events, prompting them to host a thanksgiving event for loyal customers.
“We want to make it an annual tradition to appreciate our clients. The CASA games saw many MCAs dining here, and we remain grateful for the support,” she said.
Kenya National Chamber of Commerce representative Phillip Munyua noted that the organisation had been working to link businesses with the growing hospitality sector to stimulate local economic growth.
Governor Mutuma, praising the county’s expanding tourism potential, said Meru was steadily positioning itself as a preferred destination for conferences and leisure due to its top-tier hotels and natural attractions.
“Our goal is to strengthen regional tourism and brand Meru as a warm, memorable and competitive destination,” he said.
Hotel General Manager Lawrence Amutala added that acknowledging key partners was important for sustaining the facility’s growth.
Large-scale farmer Stacy Murithi, who supplies produce to several hotels, said the hospitality boom had opened opportunities for many farmers.
“The demand for vegetables and fresh produce has risen sharply as new hotels come up in Meru and Makutano. Many of us are earning good income,” she said.
By John Majau
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