The United Kingdom and the United States issued travel recommendations last week telling their people to avoid areas of the country considered to be vulnerable to terrorist attacks. Stakeholders in the hospitality sector along the coast have opposed these advisories.
They predicted further harm to the industry, which is still recuperating from the effects of the Covid-19 limits.
However, the security precautions that the Kenyan government has implemented, such as counterterrorism patrols, were recognised by both the UK and the US.
The vice chair of the Lamu Tourism Association, Fridah Njeri, stated that the advisories are likely to hinder the sector’s performance, which has been rising since the removal of limitations.
“As stakeholders in the tourism industry, we’re unhappy with the imposed travel advisories even if it’s just for some parts of Lamu. We want the advisories to be lifted altogether as they’re hurting Lamu’s economy, especially tourism, and that of Kenya at large,” said Ms Njeri.
Mohamed Abdallah, a tour guide, expressed confidence that tourism and investment will rise in the county once the travel restrictions are lifted. He called on Coast residents to support security efforts to make the region safe for holidaymakers.
