Tourism to earn Kenya Sh200bn by 2015

Tourism industry plans to increase foreign exchange proceeds from Sh73 billion earned in 2010 to over Sh200 billion by 2015.

The business also wants its contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product increased four-fold by the same year, the assistant Minister for Tourism, Ms Cecily Mbarire said on Friday.

“The government has prioritised development of tourism by improving infrastructure in and around key tourist destinations, investment in marketing and supporting vital partnerships with the private investors,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the Tourism minister during the re-branding ceremony of Kenya Tourist Development Corporation (KTDC), Ms Mbarire added that the government is determined to double international arrivals of tourists.

Employment

The minister noted that Kenya’s tourism business stands strong and must register a good share of international tourist arrivals expected to hit 1.6 billion globally by 2020.

She hailed KTDC for supporting the business that provides livelihood to about 800,000 Kenyans across the country.

“A strong brand is a vital component in global competitiveness and I am convinced that we shall stimulate economic growth that will benefit the majority of our country,” she said.