Former Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala has secured a high-profile international position at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), where he will be based in Madrid.
Balala takes up the role of Executive Vice-President for Advocacy, Government Affairs and Research, placing him at the centre of global tourism policy and strategic decision-making. His appointment signals growing recognition of Kenya’s expertise in managing and promoting tourism on the international stage.
Speaking on his new role, Balala said, “It is an honour and a privilege to be selected by WTTC for this role. I will be bringing my experience bridging the private and public sectors to support the organisation’s strategic direction.”
A career rooted in tourism
Balala’s journey to the global stage has been shaped by decades of experience in both public service and the private sector. Before entering politics, he served as chairman of the Kenya Tourist Board, where he gained firsthand experience in destination marketing.
He later served as Mayor of Mombasa and Member of Parliament for Mvita before taking on the role of Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary, a position he held for over a decade.
During his tenure, he became one of the most recognisable figures in Kenya’s tourism sector, spearheading policy reforms and international marketing campaigns that positioned the country as a leading destination in Africa.
Steering tourism through crises
Balala’s leadership was tested during major global and domestic challenges, including security concerns and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel.
Under his watch, Kenya became the first country to receive the ‘Safer Tourism Seal,’ boosting confidence among international travellers during a period of uncertainty.
He also championed collaboration between government and private sector players, helping the industry recover and adapt to changing global travel dynamics.
WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara welcomed his appointment, noting, “Najib Balala’s extensive experience on the global stage will help strengthen our efforts to grow the sector and deepen engagement with governments worldwide.”
What the new role means
At WTTC, Balala will work closely with Chairman Manfredi Lefebvre and global industry leaders to shape tourism policies, drive research, and strengthen partnerships between governments and private sector stakeholders.
The organisation represents major players across aviation, hospitality, and travel technology, making it one of the most influential voices in the global tourism industry.
Balala’s appointment positions him as a key link between emerging markets like Kenya and global tourism decision-makers, potentially opening new opportunities for investment, partnerships, and policy influence.
