Tour Operators Assure World Kenya Remains Safe, Urge Leaders to Protect Tourism
By Shadrack Mutai – Nairobi, Kenya
The Tour Operators Society of Kenya (TOSK) has reaffirmed that Kenya remains a safe and welcoming destination for tourists, while calling on political leaders to avoid statements that could negatively affect the country’s tourism industry and the millions of livelihoods it supports.
In a statement issued by TOSK Chairperson Raymond Cheruiyot, the association noted that tourism directly and indirectly supports more than two million Kenyans through employment in tour operations, travel agencies, hospitality, conservancies, national parks, and the wider tourism value chain. The society emphasized that political discourse should be separated from matters affecting the country’s economic sectors, particularly tourism.
TOSK said tour operators are the first and last point of contact for international visitors and maintained that Kenya remains safe, open for business, and ready to welcome tourists from across the globe. The association invited visitors to experience the country’s attractions firsthand.
The society also acknowledged its close collaboration with the Tourist Police Unit (TPU) and appealed to the Government to continue prioritizing the safety and security of visitors while protecting the tourism sector from any form of violence or disorder that could damage Kenya’s international reputation.
According to TOSK, tourism is highly sensitive to crises, including health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic and recent Ebola concerns, as well as political instability and inflammatory public statements. The association stressed that even isolated incidents can significantly affect visitor confidence and the industry’s recovery.
Reaffirming its non-partisan position, TOSK said it remains committed to professionalism and responsible engagement while safeguarding the interests of the tourism industry and the livelihoods that depend on it.
