The Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano has said that the sector is set to expand with the unveiling of nine regional circuits across the country. The initiatives, Miano said, include marking and a renewed focus on domestic tourism under the “TEMBEA KENYA” initiative.
The newly unveiled circuits, the CS said, are part of the ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife to re-image tourist experiences by showcasing hidden gems aimed at boasting both domestic and international travel.
She emphasized at the end of the World Tourism week in Kisumu that the circuits are designated to invigorate Kenya’s tourism industry catering to current demands and emerging trends while aligning with conservation priorities.
“The week long celebrations have been marked with events, activations and showcases of Kisumu’s unique tourist attractions including visits to Ndere Island, tree planting at Kajulu Hills, fashion shows, programmes championed by the youth which included street art and hackathon that showcased skills and innovations” she said.
She further noted that her Ministry will invest in targeted marketing campaigns to popularize the circuits as part of the broader “Tembea Kenya Agenda” which remains the flagship program for boasting domestic tourism.
Miano expressed her appreciation to Kisumu County for hosting the Kenya Tourism week celebrations which culminates to World Tourism Day.
READ ALSO:
How MV UHURU II Will Impact Trade in the Lake Victoria Basin
The Cs emphasized tourism‘s contribution in fostering international understanding, creating employment and driving sustainable economic growth on a global scale.
She noted that tourism is not just an economic driver but also a critical stimulus in promoting peace, unity and understanding among and across nations and cultures. Miano further noted that it has highlighted the potential of the larger Western Kenya Tourism Circuit, as a region rich in cultural diversity, history and natural beauty.
Throughout the Tourism week, she said Kenyans have seen impressive exhibitions by various industry players from the region, helping to peel open the plenitude of unique attractions bestrewn right across the vast territory.
‘From the scenic landscapes around Lake Victoria to the Rusinga Cultural Festival and the spellbinding sites of Kakamega Forest, the Western Circuit is truly a hidden tourist jewel awaiting exploration by local and international visitors.’ she said.
In Kenya, she said we have embraced this spirit and experienced peace dividend through exchanges wrought in our cultural diversity as expressed in music, dance, art, sports and culinary excellence.
With the Kenya Tourism Board in the lead, they are determined to put the future of this industry in the hands of our youth primarily through education, training and entrepreneurial support.
Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu who doubles as the Chair of Governor’s Tourism & Wildlife Committee urged for increased government allocation to tourism.
“Tourism if well harnessed could become the largest contributor to the GDP and a major source of employment for the youth which is one of the government’s key agenda’s” he added.
Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtua on his part reiterated that the circuit will strengthen collaboration between the Ministry and Counties to address gaps and ensure the growth of tourism across Kenya.
On her part, Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei emphasized that KTB will market the circuits to showcase Kenya’s diverse attractions that will play a pivotal role in ensuring tourism opportunities reach every County, driving inclusive growth and satisfying Kenya status as a must-visit destination.
By Fredrick Odiero
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Sacco Review and Facebook: Sacco Review Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
