Hotels record low bookings as tourists stay away due to security concerns

BY CHARLES NGENO

Maasai Mara, Kenya: Hotels in the world famous Maasai Mara game reserve recorded low bookings during the Easter festivities as foreign tourists stayed away.

National Chairman Tour Guides and Drivers Association Andrew

Mungatana attributed this to incidents of insecurity witnessed in the country in the recent past.

He said most bookings have been done by locals as foreigners opted for Tanzania and South Africa.

“The government has to intensify its fight against terror or else we lose out on tourism which is one of the highest foreigner earners,” said Mr Mungatana.

Most of the camp managers said they had recorded slightly half bookings.

Ngerende Highland Lodge manager Caleb Taabu said they had 12 local tourists who had booked for three days.

“After they leave we shall have only two others coming. The season has been really bad. These are the only bookings we have for this month,” said Mr Taabu.

Laid off

He called on the government to tighten security in all tourists attraction centres if the confidence of the tourist is to be regained.

Taabu is optimistic that the industry will pick up during the high season that commences in July.

Siana Conservancy Chairman Sammy Nkoitoi said they have not recalled staff that were been laid off because of a slump in business.

“Normally during this season we recall some of our staff that had been on leave. Unfortunately this is not going to be the case. Police have been patrolling the area as a way of building confidence in our visitors,” said Nkoitoi.

Narok South OCPD Isaac Meme assured those visiting the Mara that security has been beefed up and patrols intensified.

He said more police officers have been deployed to reinforce the numbers within and around the park.

“Those visiting the Mara should feel safe because there are enough officers to guarantee them security. We also appeal to lodge managers to cooperate with us by reporting suspicious characters in their lodges,” said Meme.