Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala has hailed the painting of buildings in Mombasa CBD, terming the move as a game changer.
The painting followed an order by the County government, to have all residential and commercial buildings in the Central Business District (CBD) painted Egyptian-blue and white.
The public notice was issued to residents by the county administration, directing that all buildings be painted with a uniform colour to symbolize the Indian Ocean.
In March this year, the Mombasa County Administration through the Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works CeC Tawfiq Balala, gave out a 14-days notice to owners of buildings in the CDB to comply with the preparation of painting, and 30 days from start of the directive, to complete the painting.
The County government warned that it will take those who will not comply with the directive to court.
Other than painting of buildings, the coastal city has gotten a new look following rehabilitation of pavements, access roads and garbage collection with tourism players hoping to attract more visitors.
Hotels have recorded a 70 per cent occupancy due to high season and August holiday, something that stakeholders say could run upto Christmas and New Year holiday.
Balala has affirmed his Ministry's commitment to ensure Mombasa and the larger coast region attracts tourists, and further directed government offices to be also given a facelift.
A spot check at various passenger bus booking offices showed that passengers had booked vehicles for the entire August holiday period heading to Mombasa.
Bus fares have as well been increased from Sh1,000 to Sh1,500 for economy class passengers.
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