Balala says number of tourism to reach 3 million by 2018

MOMBASA, KENYA: Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Mr Najib Balala has said the number of foreign tourists coming to Kenya annually could reach three million in the next two years due to ongoing reforms in the sector which he says will be sustained. 

In a statement to the press, he said that the national government seeks to establish a hotel refurbishment fund and county tourism product development as part of initiatives to revive the ailing industry.

Since being reappointed back to handle the tourism docket which now has a stand-alone ministry, Balala has indicated willingness to work with county governments to diversify tourism products.

Balala has further outlined efforts to come up with a 10-year tourism strategy which will help in guiding the industry in a highly competitive global arena.

''We have plans to enhance tourism marketing to the next level by ensuring that the Magical Kenya Brand is relaunched and also revamp and relaunch the National Brand 'Make it Kenya','' Balala said.

Balala eyes his ministry to undertake the completion of phase 11 and 111 of the Ronald Ngala Utalii College, located in Kikambala, Kilifi County.

The new college whose construction is underway is due for completion in 2018.