The 79th SKAL International world Congress has been termed a turning point for Kenya’s north coast of Mombasa.
The congress is being held for the first time in Africa since its existence in 1934 and has attracted 38 countries from across the globe.
Addressing a packed Auditorium of delegates, media and stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry, Kenya’s Cabinet secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Najib Balala paid glowing tributes to members of Skal for giving the country the opportunity to showcase its best to the world.
Mr Balala said, it was part of Government’s deliberate measures to restore and promote the tourism economy of Kenya’s coast whose 45% of its economy relies on tourism.
‘’The National Government of Kenya, through my Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife, is the main sponsor of this Congress since we are committed to restoring Mombasa, and indeed Kenya, to its former glory as the tourism destination of choice. Mombasa, Watamu and Diana are among some of the best beach destinations in the world. Our efforts to turn around tourism are slowly beginning to pay off and we request you to partner with us in this incredible journey, by endorsing and promoting our beach destinations.’’ Said Balala.
Last year, World Travel Awards (WTA) named Kenya the World’s Leading Safari destination. Three weeks ago, 15 Kenyan tourism and travel establishments were feted in the just concluded WTA held in Durban, South Africa. Among these were: Diani, voted as Africa’s Leading Beach destination, Masai Mara, voted as the continent’s leading National Park, and Kenya Airways, the Leading Business and Economy Class Airline in Africa. The minister added.
The Minister said, such recognition shows that Kenya has indeed reaffirmed its rightful position in the global tourism space.
“Today is a turning point for Mombasa, for this affirms it as a safe international destination. We are very proud, as a people from this beautiful coastal city, of the progressing we are making and pledge to enhance our efforts to offer our clients the best visitor experience possible and great value for their money”, said Balala.
The president of SKAL International Susana Saari in her address lauded Kenya for her strides towards sustainable tourism practices which she noted was an integral part in the tourism business.
She was confident the congress would be a turning point for the tourism economy in Mombasa.
Saari later in an interview with VoyagesAfriq said, the association will embark on expansion drive to net more members to Skal in Africa.
The 4-day conference themed “Congress on the Beach” has attracted over 500 tourism and hospitality agents across the world.
