Number of foreign visitors to Kenya plunges by 31 per cent
What you need to know:
- Security threats, Ebola fears and travel advisories have over time been blamed for the poor performance of the service industry, which has subsequently resulted in loss of thousands of jobs. According to industry players, the Coast has been the worst hit.
- According to Mr Ikwaye, more than 30,000 workers in hotels have been laid off since last year after their places of work were shut down for lack of occupancy.
The number of foreign tourists coming to Kenya this year has dipped by 31 per cent in the first quarter, compared to the same period last year.
Arrivals through the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport between January and March, have dropped from 202,737 to 152,138 — a 25 per cent decline. Similarly, arrivals through the Moi International Airport have dipped by 53.1 per cent to stand at 24,947 down from 53,228 last year.
Kenya’s tourism sector has been brought to its knees, thanks to a blend of events that have dented the country’s image.
Security threats, Ebola fears and travel advisories have over time been blamed for the poor performance of the service industry, which has subsequently resulted in loss of thousands of jobs. According to industry players, the Coast has been the worst hit.
“The most affected products are those in South Coast, Malindi and Lamu; that’s where most hotels have been closed,” the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) Coast branch executive officer Sam Ikwaye said, adding that Mombasa is counting on conferencing facilities to remain afloat during this period.
According to Mr Ikwaye, more than 30,000 workers in hotels have been laid off since last year after their places of work were shut down for lack of occupancy.
RIPPLE EFFECT
The ripple effect resulting from this is expected to be even bigger, as entrepreneurs who supply hotels with foodstuff, beverages, taxi businesses and transport firms among others will also feel the pinch.
The sector, Mr Ikwaye said, is now pegging its hopes on the growing middle class to keep it afloat.
Mr Ikwaye called on the government to act on the tourism recovery task force report that was presented to the Ministry of East African affairs, Commerce and Tourism in March this year.
“We are still waiting to hear when the recommendations that were suggested to help the ailing sector, will be implemented,” he said.
