The Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage Peninah Malonza has called on hoteliers to embrace innovation and aim to increase bed nights and tourism numbers for both domestic and international visitors in order to rebuild the sector stronger.

Malonza said rebuilding tourism requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond refurbishing hospitality facilities.

She said hoteliers must renew their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the well-being of their visitors.

“We must invest in refurbishing our establishments to maintain and refresh our unmatched national brand. We must also upgrade facilities, expand connectivity, provide affordable transport and accommodation,” said Malonza.

Malonza was speaking in Mombasa Friday afternoon after officially opening the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers annual symposium.

She emphasized on the need for players in the tourism sector to introduce new and exciting products that enhance the overall visitor experience and position Kenya as a premier destination.

Malonza said that the efforts must go beyond bricks and mortar adding that players must also embrace sustainability as a core principle.

“Protecting and preserving our wildlife, cultural heritage, and diverse ecosystems should be our responsibility as a sector. Let us promote responsible travel, eco-tourism, and environmental protection to create lasting experiences for our visitors,” Malonza said.

Innovation, she said, is the key to unlocking the potential of the tourism industry in a rapidly changing world.

She urged hoteliers to adapt to the evolving needs and preferences of travelers, harnessing technology and creativity to enhance their experiences.

By incorporating eco-friendly initiatives and supporting local businesses, she said the industry can offer authentic and meaningful experiences that resonate with the values of modern travelers.

“There is also need to build capacity and train our staff to enable them be at par with current global tourism trends. By investing in our workforce and empowering them with knowledge and skills, we increase Kenya’s competitive advantage as a tourism destination,” she said.

She added that continuous training, mentorship programs, and initiatives that promote entrepreneurship will elevate our tourism professionals and ensure they stay in tune with global trends.

She reiterated the need to embracing innovation as a driving force for change, recognizing that the potential of the tourism industry is limitless.

The CS further asked the hoteliers to be prepared to deal with thorny issues that affect tourism like the case of beach boys.

“I believe we can organize them and then offer them training that will make them independent and they will be able to earn a decent livelihood. This will be a win -win situation for everyone in this crucial sector,” she said.