Hospitality stakeholders in Kisumu County have been assured of enhanced security and safety measures as the government intensifies efforts to position the region as a tourism and investment destination.
Speaking during a sensitisation forum held on Friday in Kisumu, Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) Director General Norbert Talam said the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among key players in the hospitality sector and security agencies.
“We are here to engage stakeholders, including hotel managers and security heads, on the importance of safety and preparedness. Our goal is to ensure that Kisumu remains secure for business, investment, and tourism,” Talam said.
He emphasised that the exercise is part of a nationwide campaign by the Authority to reassure both local and international tourists of Kenya’s commitment to safety within its tourism circuits.
“Kisumu offers peace and tranquility, and we encourage both local and international tourists to visit and experience its unique attractions,” he added.
TRA, he added, has already conducted similar engagements with sector players in Nairobi, Naivasha, and Machakos counties, with plans underway to roll it out in Narok and the Coastal regions in an effort to revive and sustain growth in Kenya’s hospitality industry amid evolving security concerns.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, speaking at the occasion, reiterated the county’s commitment to ensuring a secure environment for businesses, particularly the hospitality industry.
“For tourism and hospitality sectors to thrive, security is paramount. As a county, we are working closely with the national government to guarantee the safety of investments and visitors in Kisumu,” said Owili.
At the same time, Tourist Police Unit Commandant Lydia Ligami noted that the training addresses security gaps that previously affected the sector.
Ligami said the programme is designed to build capacity among hoteliers, enabling them to strengthen both physical and cyber security systems.
She reassured the public that Kisumu is safe for both domestic and international visitors, adding that efforts are ongoing to further enhance security across hotels and tourism facilities in the region.
The two-day forum has brought together hoteliers, tourism operators, and security officials to discuss strategies for risk management, emergency response, and coordinated security frameworks.
By Robert Ojwang’ and Owen Yimbo
