Bruhan Makong
The announcement was made at the first meeting of the
committee held at the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid, Spain.
The Ministry of Tourism said that Kenya won the position
after two rounds of voting, defeating strong bids from Thailand and Malta.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua termed the election
an historic moment for the country as it puts Kenya in a position of decision
making in matters that affect tourism across the globe.
“This vote demonstrates the confidence that UNWTO member
states have in Kenya’s leadership and ability to steer the organization’s
agenda on tourism competitiveness,” Mutua said.
He added that tourism Is a key pillar of the Kenyan economy,
noting that chairing the committee would allow synergy with other UNWTO members
in shaping policy, building partnerships, and promoting best practices in
tourism.
“We shall champion initiatives that will help in the
creation of jobs, protecting of the planet as well as driving inclusive growth
that can be felt and be impactful within communities,” he added.
UNWTO Executive Director, Special Representative to the
United Nations in Geneva, Zoritsa Urosevic congratulated Kenya on securing the
chair position acknowledging Kenya’s achievements in the tourism sector.
She expressed confidence in the country’s ability to lead
the Committee effectively.
"I commend Kenya for its commitment to sustainable
tourism development. As one of the important tourism economies in Africa, Kenya
will bring valuable experience and expertise that will lead the Committee's
work in enhancing competitiveness and responsible tourism across UNWTO member
countries," Urosevic said.
The Tourism Ministry had appointed Wausi Walya, Public
Relations and Corporate Communications Manager at the Kenya Tourism Board to
lead the pitch for Kenya as the designated technical officer and appointed
focal person for the technical committee by the Ministry.
Kenya's successful bid was anchored on its tourism
competitiveness pillars such as destination marketing, diversified tourism
offerings, sustainable tourism practices, cultural and natural heritage,
training, and skills development programs as well as innovations and technology
among other strengths.
The country's infrastructural development strides in areas
of roads, airports and hospitality facilities were also highlighted as key
enablers which have unlocked growth potential for the sector.
The UNWTO Committee on Tourism and Competitiveness acts as a
platform for cooperation between Member States to enhance the competitiveness
of their offering, promote innovation, and ensure the sustainable growth of
tourism worldwide.
Kenya takes over the chairmanship for three years and will hold the position between 2024 and 2027.