Kenya tourism growth expected to remain flat in 2012

February 16, 2012

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Kenya's tourism sector posted positive growth in 2011, but growth is expected to remain flat in 2012, Tourism Minister Najib Balala said on Wednesday (February 15th).

Balala cited international perceptions about instability in Kenya, travel advisories issued by foreign governments and the economic situation in tourism markets as factors that will hinder the tourism sector.

The travel advisories followed the killing of tourists in the coastal city of Lamu. The killings were blamed on al-Shabaab and prompted a military campaign against the al-Qaeda linked group.

Tourism earnings grew by nearly 33% to reach $1.2 billion in 2011, and arrivals increased by 15.4% to 1.26 million visitors. Nevertheless, Business Daily Africa quoted Balala as saying, "I do not expect any growth. We are worried about 2012."

The minister said Kenya is looking to promote the country in new markets that have not been affected by the global economic crisis.

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