The coastal counties of Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale have witnessed a major tourists surge with hotels and other accommodation facilities reporting high bed occupancy during this festive season.
The Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha has assured adequate security to the local and international tourists visiting the area for December holidays noting that all security arrangements have been put in place to ensure residents and visitors enjoy a peaceful and safe holiday season.
“We have deployed adequate security personnel and enhanced patrols at the beaches and other popular joints,” she said.
The Administrator called on the public to report any suspected person or illegal activities saying the region has witnessed improved security in the last three years due to co-operation between the public and police.
“Beside a few isolated criminal cases, the region has enjoyed peace and security as a result of the co-operation between the public and security personnel including village elders,’’ she added.
Meanwhile, tourism players are optimistic of brisk business and expect high bed occupancy following increased bookings and enquiries.
“Hotels in the region are receiving encouraging bookings and reservations with local holidaymakers accounting for the highest percentage,” said the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers in charge of the coast region, Sam Ikwaye.
Ikwaye said hotels and other stakeholders are looking forward to a better holiday season compared to last year saying hotels and other facilities are fully prepared and have lined up a series of events and entertainments for holidaymakers.
He lauded the government for undertaking major infrastructure improvement in the region that he said was a boost to the tourism industry.
The hotelier noted that the introduction of Mombasa commuter rail service has eased passenger flow between the mainland and Mombasa Island resulting in more local and international visitors.
Another key infrastructural development that has boosted the tourism industry is the completion of the Sh45 billion Dongo Kundu bypass, which provides a direct route and improves connectivity between Mombasa and the South Coast.
“It is providing connection from the Moi International Airport and SGR terminus hence improving tourism and hospitality industry in the coastal region,” added Ikwaye.
According to the hotelier the bypass has drastically reduced dependence on Likoni Ferry channel which has been a nightmare for passengers and motorists due to frequent mechanical challenges, delays, vehicles congestion and safety concerns for both locals and tourists.
Ikwaye challenged tourist hotels and apartments to provide special incentive packages to attract domestic visitors who he said have sustained the industry during the difficult period.
