The smooth and peaceful resolution of the recent presidential election in Kenya has been strongly welcomed both by the Kenyan people and the international community – and comes as a welcome shot of optimism for the country’s tourism trade.
Following the disputed outcome of last month’s election, the Supreme Court in Nairobi has upheld the result, meaning that Uhuru Kenyatta will be sworn into office as President on 9 April. The peaceful acceptance of this decision and the acknowledgement that the election process has been free and fair have attracted sweeping praise of Kenya’s handling of the process. There has been no repeat of the unrest which surrounded the 2007 election, prompting quiet celebration about the country’s developing democratic maturity.
The news has positive implications for tourism in Kenya. Clearly, a secure and progressive political climate creates the right conditions for sustaining a stable tourist industry, and to promote confidence throughout the international community about choosing Kenya as a holiday destination.
But further to this, the choice of incoming president can be regarded as a particular source of optimism for those of us involved in tourism. Kenyatta has previously worked as Chairman of the Kenya Tourist Board, so is closely attuned to the needs of the sector. He has also expressed a keen awareness of the need to protect Kenya’s natural environment, including its threatened wildlife.
In this new chapter for Kenya, we are hopeful that we can continue to grow as a progressive and maturing nation – and also to look forward to a system of governance which safeguards our phenomenal natural assets and cements Kenya's place as one of the world’s most attractive and welcoming places to visit.
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