The Tourism Regulatory Authority has unveiled a nationwide safety and security sensitisation programme aimed at enhancing preparedness across the tourism value chain.
According to a press release by the agency, the initiative is designed to equip industry personnel with the skills needed to prevent, detect and respond to potential threats while promoting a culture of vigilance at key tourism touchpoints.
The programs which are in collaboration with key security agencies including, the Tourist Police Unit, Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU), Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Bomb Disposal Unit.
Speaking during the sensitization forums, the Director General of Tourism Regulatory Authority, Mr. Norbert Talam, emphasized the critical importance of safety and security in sustaining the growth of the tourism industry. “Safety and security are fundamental to the success of the tourism sector, as they build confidence among both local and international tourists. Stakeholders must continuously enhance their preparedness and responsiveness to emerging threats,” he noted.
Mr. Talam urged sector players to strengthen compliance with the key areas highlighted during the workshops and reaffirmed TRA’s commitment to working closely with partner agencies to expand the sensitization program across the country.
He emphasized that the Authority will roll out the next phase of training targeting tour driver guides, tour operators and travel agencies to further strengthen preparedness and build a more resilient and secure tourism industry.
Mr. Kibet Tembur, General Manager of Starling Bird Resort, highlighted the importance of the sensitization programmes to stakeholders and encouraged the Authority to conduct them more frequently, noting that there is a great deal that stakeholders need to learn to enhance and improve the industry.
The specialized security units will provide technical expertise and practical insights to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to safety and security within the sector, raising safety standards and reinforcing confidence in Kenya’s tourism experience, as the sector gears up for the upcoming facility classification exercise.
