Demand sees more investors eye pie of Western Kenya hotel business

(In front) Businessman Eng Tom Okoko followed by Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti during official opening of Jabali County Lodge at Kakelo Village, Kabondo Kasipul Constituncy on May 1, 2015. [PHOTO/JAMES OMORO/STANDARD]

Investors in the Western Kenya tourism circuit are angling to tap into the hospitality industry, following increased demand for accommodation and conferencing.

This is after hotels were booked to full capacity and some guests stranded due to inadequate facilities during the recent Second Devolution Conference at Kisumu City. Investors are also keen to cash in on the fledgling Western Kenya tourism industry known for bird sanctuaries and popular historical sites such as Simbi Nyaima and Homa Hills in Homa Bay County.

In Kabondo Kasipul constituency, a new facility opened doors to tourists on Friday, with Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti expressing optimism that it will boost tourism in the region.

Jabali County Lodge owner Eng Tom Okoko says he was motivated by the desire to enhance tourism in the county. "We have a bird sanctuary known as Mbusi Rachuonyo, Simbi Nyaima and other tourist attractions but tourists shy away due to lack of accommodation facilities in the area," said Okoko. Okoko said the resort will enhance tourism in Homa Bay County as well as in the larger Nyanza region. The hotel is 10km from Oyugis town with a capacity to host more than 120 people.

The hotel's key facilities conferencing, playgrounds, swimming pool, wedding ground among others on a 2km stretch. "I call upon the county government to award us tenders and hold workshops in this facility to spur our growth," said Okoko, who resigned from the Civil Service to start the business.

Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti, who officially opened the resort said the devolved unit will help grow tourism in the area. "This venture is going to contribute a lot in providing employment opportunities for youths. I want to encourage everybody to think of investments because county and national governments alone cannot provide employment to everyone," said Awiti. Transport and Infrastructure County Executive Eliud Otieno promised to improve on roads in the area to enhance accessibility of the facility.