eduction in the budget will severely hamper the ability to promote Kenya as a tourist destination
The Ministry of Tourism has expressed its concern over the imminent budget cuts, warning that they pose a threat to the country's tourism sector marketing efforts.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary, Peninnah Malonza, highlighted the travel-related reductions proposed in the supplementary budget, stressing that they may impact the ministry's ability to promote the country effectively.
Malonza emphasized the significance of the ministry, which contributes 10% of Kenya's GDP, and explained that adequately funding the sector would stimulate economic growth and attract more foreign exchange revenue.
She referred to the recent growth in the tourism industry, with the number of tourists increasing to 1.4 million from 800,000 in just five months.
Malonza's concerns were acknowledged by Committee Chairperson Kareke Mbiuki, who pledged to raise the matter in the House and try to reinstate some of the budget.
While supporting the executive's total expenditure reduction by 300 billion shillings, Mbiuki aimed to find a peaceful solution and work collaboratively with the ministry to move forward. As part of the supplementary budget for Financial Year 2022/23, the Ministry of Tourism's allocation was decreased from Sh5 billion to Sh3 billion.
