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Tourism ministry warns of profit slump if protests continue

Plainclothes police offices are pictured in the Nairobi city centre during anti-government protests on July 2, 2024. (Photo: Hafsa Hassan/EV)

By Mary Wambui | Thursday, July 4, 2024

The nationwide anti-government protests entered the third week on Tuesday, July 2.

The Ministry of Tourism confirmed on Thursday that the current wave of protests in the country has slowed down activities in the sector due to the cancellation of bookings.

However, it insisted that its stability was unshaken as the cancellations were yet to be classified as major.

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"We are lucky that we have not seen a major dent or cancellation as a result of what has been happening. However, if the unsettledness continues, it will have a negative impact on the sector, leading to a reduction in our earnings, the possibility of job losses, and the freezing of new opportunities, especially, for graduates aiming to join the tourism and wildlife sectors for livelihood," the statement said.

The Ministry sought to assure tourists that the government has outlined measures to ensure the stability of the sector, especially in Mombasa and Diani during the current high season.

"Kenya is open for tourism. It is a safe, amazing, and rewarding destination. The national parks, beaches, museums, and all our various wonders are attracting many visitors. Our national parks are vibrant with visitors. Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Nakuru, and Tsavo, among others, are fully booked, and we have not had any disruptions," the statement added.

Scenes outside the Supreme Court in Nairobi as police officers continue to battle protestors on Thursday, July 27, 2024 . (Photo: Justine Ondieki/EV)

The sector is one of the largest employers of youth in the country. The Ministry estimates that 80 per cent of the workforce falls into that category, contributing a significant portion to the annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

"The tourism sector last year contributed about Sh353 billion to the Kenyan economy, and this year has been on an upward trend to contribute significantly more, with the target set at Sh700 billion per year in the next few years. The increase in numbers means more money for the country and many new jobs, especially, for our youth and business growth," said the Ministry.

It, however, noted that the sector thrives solely on the nation's security situation.

On Wednesday, stakeholders from the tourism sector convened in Mombasa to strategise on enhancing safety and security within the sector amid the protests.

Among the officials present were 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.

"This forum aims to equip stakeholders with essential knowledge and skills to address tourism safety and security issues effectively. Collaboration between government agencies, private sector entities, and community representatives is crucial for developing a comprehensive approach to tourism safety and security," Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtua stated.

Mombasa tourism stakeholders, on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, discussed security measures for the sector amid the ongoing nationwide demonstrations. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)