Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala called on Kenyan hotel operators to update their offerings ahead of the 2019 International Tourism Bourse in Berlin, emphasizing the need for modernized travel experiences and diversified accommodation models.
Speaking at the event, Balala criticized the continued use of outdated excursions and itineraries, stating, 'We cannot continue using the same excursions, itineraries, and programmes we had 20 years ago.' He referenced a March 2019 symposium in Diani focused on product development, noting that contemporary travelers seek immersive destination experiences.
He urged hotel owners to reevaluate establishment categories, explaining that modern tourists often book accommodation separately from additional experiences. 'The free independent traveler will book the accommodation and do extras elsewhere,' Balala said, advocating for options like bed-only, bed-and-breakfast, and full-board models.
Coast Tourism Working Group member Bobby Kamani requested tax incentives to fund upgrades, telling the Nation, 'Some hotels are taking the upgrading seriously, but not all are giving it the importance it deserves.' He called for mandatory reinvestment of tax savings into hotel improvements.
The bourse featured 42 Kenyan companies, including PrideInn Group of Hotels founder Hasnain Noorani, who highlighted the event's role in fostering partnerships. Balala reiterated its significance, stating it provides a platform for stakeholders to learn from global practices and enhance Kenya's tourism offerings.
