He said his Ministry has mapped out tourism sites, installations and facilities for purposes of distributing security personnel in such areas/FILE
He said his Ministry has mapped out tourism sites, installations and facilities for purposes of distributing security personnel in such areas.
Speaking when he met members of the Task Force on Tourism Recovery, Lenku said the tourism sector was a very sensitive industry and perceptions of insecurity could easily erode international confidence of Kenya as a safe and security tourists’ destination.
“As someone who is familiar with the industry, I can assure you that I will do everything in power to ensure that all your security concerns are addressed by the country’s security agencies so that we do not kill the goose that lays the golden,” the Cabinet Secretary said.
The group was led by the Task Force Chairperson Lucy Karume who also chairs the Kenya Tourism Foundation (KTF).
Other members who accompanied her included Cecil Miller, the chair of Task Force Security Committee, members Roberto Marini, Richard Corcoran and Nicholas Bodo.
Ole Lenku further explained that security had been revamped at all airports, airstrips and ferries across the country.
He said his Ministry in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had created a system through which regular updates and briefs were provided to foreign missions in the country on security issues.
Regarding claims of harassment of tourists by rogue police officers, the Cabinet Secretary asked Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo to investigate and take appropriate disciplinary action against such officers.
During the meeting Kimaiyo said the number of police officers exclusively dedicated to tourism will be increased and that Tourist Police Unit (TPU) will equipped with modern vehicles and technology to enhance the Unit’s capacity.
“We are aware of the challenges facing TPU and I can assure Tourism stakeholders that we are addressing these challenges to enhance capacity and visibility of TPU in Nairobi, Mombasa and other parts of the country that form the Tourism Circuit,” explained the IGP.
