Patmoz
By James Nyaigoti
Kenya’s tourism and hospitality sector has reached a new milestone in quality assurance and service excellence, following the successful implementation of the National Accreditation Scheme. The initiative, spearheaded by the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) under the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, aims to elevate hospitality standards by ensuring compliance with national minimum requirements.
Speaking on behalf of Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, Principal Secretary for Tourism John Ololtuaa highlighted the significance of the accreditation initiative in boosting Kenya’s global competitiveness.
He emphasized that the awards being presented today recognize the hard work and dedication of industry players who have enhanced service delivery, customer experience, and environmental sustainability in the sector.
Kenya’s tourism industry has witnessed remarkable growth, with visitor arrivals reaching 2.4 million by the end of 2024, generating KSh 452 billion in revenue—a substantial improvement from KSh 377.5 billion in 2023. The figures reflect a strong recovery and increasing demand for Kenya as a preferred travel destination.
However, despite this progress, the sector still faces significant challenges, including climate change-related risks, global economic downturns, and rising health and environmental consciousness among travelers, necessitating sustainable tourism practices.
PS Ololtuaa commended the Tourism Regulatory Authority’s efforts to tackle these challenges head-on. He particularly acknowledged tourism centers that have taken proactive steps to address climate change impacts, ensuring the sector’s resilience and long-term sustainability.
The PS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with all relevant agencies to address industry concerns and enhance Kenya’s position as a top global destination.
“We are ensuring that we collaborate with the entire government machinery so that stakeholder issues that impact the sector are effectively addressed,” he stated.
As part of this whole-government approach, the PS highlighted several key initiatives, including the recent launch of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which has streamlined the visa process, making Kenya more accessible to international visitors. The government has swiftly addressed stakeholder concerns, ensuring a seamless and efficient entry experience for tourists.
Additionally, a new program is enhancing travel experiences at major airports, starting with Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), to improve efficiency, customer service, and infrastructure at Kenya’s key entry points. The ministry has also rolled out a robust international marketing campaign through the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) to attract more visitors by showcasing Kenya’s diverse tourism offerings.
The government remains committed to supporting the hospitality sector through initiatives that promote fair competition, quality assurance, and enhanced visitor experiences. The PS encouraged awarded establishments to maintain high standards and continuously improve their services, ensuring Kenya remains a world-class tourism destination.
Shadrack Nyakoe
