By Margaret Wahito
Nairobi — Kenya is looking forward to grow tourist arrival numbers by the end of 2015, owing to the numerous international events taking place in the country.
Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Managing Director Muriithi Ndegwa says the events provide the country with an opportunity to market its attractions and boost its image as the best holiday destination.
Ndegwa told Capital FM Business the events and conferences are key for the board to expand its marketing strategy for Kenya.
“I would not have the exact numbers of what we expect this year, but I think we can cautiously say that all things being equal, we are looking at things being better than last year,” Ndegwa said. “If we maintain security that is very paramount for business to thrive in this country, I am sure things will be better.”
He was speaking ahead of the second edition of the X-treme Expo from April 18 which provides an opportunity for businesses involved in the active equipment, outdoor travel and adventure industries to engage in cross-cultural public activities.
Some of the mega events Kenya is expected to host this year include the 40th Africa Travel Association (ATA) Congress which will take place in November.
The event is expected to bring together more than 500 key players in the tourism travel industry from Africa and the world.
Kenya will also host the 10th World Trade Organisations (WTO) Ministerial Conference from 15 to 18 December 2015 where more than 6,000 delegates of the 160 member nations are expected for the event.
Kenya will become the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to host the World Trade Organisation ministerial conference.
From November 15 to 18, the country will also be hosting more than 800 participants from 65 countries who are anticipated to attend the World Public Relations Forum.
US President Barrack Obama is expected in Kenya from July 24 to 26 to attend Global Entrepreneurship Summit, the first to be held in sub-Saharan Africa.
He will be the first sitting US president to visit Kenya.
Source: CapitalFM
