Twist As CS Mutua Asks Women To Invest In Airbnbs

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua has encouraged women and youth to consider investing in Airbnbs despite the negative publicity they have generated over the recent femicide cases in Kenya.

Mutua was speaking during the Kenya Association of Women in Tourism annual conference on Wednesday, January 31 where he stressed the importance of the short-stay accommodation facilities in the growth of the country's tourism sector.

"This morning, I had the privilege of officially inaugurating the first-ever annual Kenya Women in Tourism Association conference in Nairobi, Kenya.

"During my address, I placed a strong emphasis on the enduring significance of short-stay accommodation facilities, colloquially known as Airbnbs, as integral contributors to the flourishing tourism sector," he stated in part.

The CS further noted that his ministry, in recognizing the evolving landscape, is actively seeking public input to refine regulations governing these short-stay facilities, with a primary focus on enhancing safety and suitability for visitors.

"Despite recent challenges, I urged women and youth to consider investing in these facilities, underscoring the importance of exploring innovative alternatives to conventional accommodations," he added.

While acknowledging existing hurdles, the CS reassured the public of the government's commitment to proactive measures, establishing new regulations that harmonize growth and security in Kenya’s vibrant tourism industry.

It is worth noting that CS Mutua had on January 16 announced tougher measures to enhance safety in the Airbnbs in the wake of the murders of Rita Waeni and Starlet Wahu that occurred a week apart from each other.

"As the Ministry mandated to act as the key regulator of Kenya's Tourism Sector through the Tourism Regulatory Authority, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to ensuring the well-being and safety of all stakeholders.

"Aligned with Section 7 of the Tourism Act No.28 of 2011, our responsibilities encompass registering, licensing, and grading sustainable tourism and related activities, including services provided by cottages and private residences engaged in guest house services. Furthermore, we are dedicated to formulating regulations, standards, and guidelines essential for comprehensive quality service delivery in the tourism sector. Your safety and satisfaction remain our top priorities," Mutua announced in a statement.

He added that regrettably, incidents involving Kenyan citizens in accommodation facilities booked through online platforms occurred, with several platforms distancing themselves from these isolated cases, including the parent company, Airbnb, which emphasized that the incidents were unrelated to accommodations booked through the platform.

Mutua announced that his Ministry would institute enhanced compliance as well as take legal action against anyone found violating the tourism authority's laws.

"It is our assurance that hospitality services in Kenya are generally safe. However, we urge the public to verify the registration and license status of facilities to ensure compliance with already outlined directives by the government and maintain quality standards.

"To uphold the integrity of our tourism industry, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, through the Tourism Regulatory Authority, will rigorously enforce compliance, taking legal action against any violations of TRA licensing laws. Late renewals will be subject to penalties and other consequences as stipulated by law," he added.

His Public Service counterpart, Moses Kuria on January 28 announced that the government would embark on a crackdown on Kenyans offering short-term rental stays under the popular term 'Airbnb' without proper certifications.

Kuria's statement came a day after nationwide protests were held in several towns as well as Nairobi, Kenya's capital, against the rising femicide cases witnessed in the country.