This archive report was first published on 16 September 2019.
On September 13, 2019, Kenya's Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala made history by being elected to chair the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) executive council. The election took place during the UNWTO General Assembly in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Industry players have welcomed the news, hailing Balala's achievement as a significant milestone for Kenya and Africa. Mr. Bobby Kamani, Managing Director of Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa, expressed his admiration for Balala's leadership, saying, 'We wish to congratulate Minister Balala for this very noble achievement. This outstanding achievement will not only place Kenya and Africa on the global map but is also a true testament to Kenya as a significant tourism hub.'
Mr. Edward Wangeci, General Manager of Naro Moru River Lodge, also congratulated Balala, stating, 'It is a win for Kenya and Africa. Balala has been at the forefront in agitating for intra-Africa tourism trade and we hope he will use his position to champion for closer tourism collaboration in the entire globe.'
The African Tourism Board chairman, Cuthbert Ncube, also extended his congratulations to Balala, saying, 'The African Tourism Board congratulates the Kenyan minister, Mr Najib Balala on his election to lead the UNWTO Executive Council.'
The UNWTO's Executive Council plays a crucial role in implementing the organisation's decisions and recommendations, and Balala's election is seen as a significant boost to Kenya's tourism industry.
