This archive report was first published on 10 September 2019.
On September 10, 2019, the Kenya Coast Tourism Association (KCTA) officially merged with the Coast Tourism Working Group, marking a significant step towards bolstering tourism arrivals to the coast.
The oldest tourism lobby group in Kenya, KCTA was established in 1964 as the East African Tourism Association (EATA). It later rebranded to Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association (MCTA) before being known as KCTA.
Speaking after the official merger, KCTA chief executive officer Julius Owino stated that the Coast Tourism Working Group would be domiciled as a special committee under KCTA.
According to Owino, the implementation of the tourism strategy and achieving its intended objectives can only be successful if stakeholders build synergy and collaboration among themselves.
He added that the partnership between KCTA and the Ministry of Tourism would see a holistic approach to destination branding, packaging, and marketing, thereby improving visitors' experiences.
Industry players have praised the government's efforts in reviving the tourism industry, with Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala being commended for his commitment to the sector.
