Kenya’s National Assembly Initiates Probe into State of Beach Tourism

The National Assembly of Kenya has launched an investigation into the condition of the country’s beaches, a pivotal component of its tourism sector. The Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife will spearhead the inquiry, responding to concerns raised by Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe, who highlighted the decreasing competitiveness of Kenya’s beaches in the global tourism market.

Mugabe emphasized that beach tourism serves as a crucial socio-economic activity and livelihood source for coastal communities. However, he expressed dismay over the decline in the attractiveness and competitiveness of Kenyan beaches due to the encroachment of aggressive local and informal operators over the past two decades.
These operators, both regulated and unregulated, have been accused of engaging in various tourism-related activities and harassing visitors, negatively impacting the beach tourism industry.
The issues identified by Mugabe include increased insecurity, poor waste management affecting marine parks and beach ecology, inadequate infrastructure at the beaches, and heightened conflicts among beach users.
He argued that these challenges have led to economic losses for coastal counties and the national exchequer.
To address these concerns, Mugabe has requested a statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife, Kareke Mbiuki. The statement is expected to outline the Ministry of Tourism’s plans to protect, rehabilitate, and promote beach tourism in Kenya.
Mugabe is also seeking information on sustainable management programs initiated by the Ministry to protect the environment and contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Additionally, the Committee is urged to clarify whether there are specific policy and legislative proposals developed by the Ministry to guide beach management in Kenya. These measures aim to enhance the attractiveness and competitiveness of Kenyan beaches, ensuring their sustainability and contribution to the nation’s tourism sector.