Contribution of bed nights by the domestic tourists is expected to grow from the current 47% to 50% by next year, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has said.
Speaking after presenting prizes to the first five winners of the ongoing tourism promotion campaigns, KTB Director of Marketing Jacinta Nzioka said dometic tourism has the potential that needed to be harnessed.
“This is a rich market that has all the potential for growth, and with our various marketing tactics we have put in place, we shall grow the sector to the next level,” says Nzioka.
Last week, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala launched a Sh30 million SMS campaign to woo in domestic travelers as part of its recovery strategy.
The five winners won prizes for a three-day excursion in Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu National Reserve and Nakuru National Park.
The winners; Geoffrey Ngeno, Purity Kaugi, Karimjee Fazal Hussein and Amos Kyalo Musyoka will also be spending two nights in different facilities within the Parks after a safari experience.
KTB Company Secretary Allan Njoroge said the SMS campaign will have a direct impact on domestic tourist numbers as it supports the ongoing efforts to position the country’s tourist attractions to the local audience.
The eight-week long campaign will see couples and individuals win prizes during the campaign which will include two nights and three days to various attractions.
He said there will be a grand prize for two people for five nights with a flying package either to Maasai Mara or Samburu. To register for the competition, one will be required to send his or her name to 21888.
KTB says the campaign will add impetus to the ongoing Tembea Kenya Campaign seeking to encourage more Kenyans to tour their country and sample its diverse tourism attractions.
Njoroge called on the hotels to offer affordable packages to the local market as a cushion during low season.