Kenya Coast Tourism Association director Millicent Odhiambo at a past function. Photo/ nation.co.ke
Investors in the tourism sector are confident the industry is growing as a result of the efforts made by various key players. Speaking during an interview with Baraka FM, Kenya Coast Tourism Association director Millicent Odhiambo said the number of tourists visiting the region has risen by 6 per cent as per the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) reports. Odhiambo attributed the growth to infrastructure development programmes and push for direct flights from different parts of the world to Mombasa. She also said the completion of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project will also boost the tourism sector in the coming years. Odhiambo also pointed out that the expansion of the berth one at the Mombasa Port has created room for more cruise ship from various nations. She further called upon the national government to fasten the issue of direct flights to Mombasa, adding that the landing fees from Western Countries are relatively high compared to the neighboring countries including Tanzania. The tourism industry which plays an immense role in the country's economy has been facing a number of challenges including security threats amidst calls by different leaders to put in place measures that will protect the sector.