Nyeri celebrates World Tourism Day 2023, focusing on fastest flowing river in Africa

As the world marks World Tourism Week, celebrated between September 27th and 30th, stakeholders from the tourism sector in Tetu, Nyeri, have come together to promote unexplored tourism destinations, such as River Gura, within Tetu Constituency, Nyeri County in central Kenya.

Despite Tetu constituency boasting spectacular scenery like the Aberdare mountain ranges and being home to the fastest-flowing river in Africa, tourism activities have declined over the years, particularly after the Covid-19 pandemic.

"To address these declining fortunes, we had to go back to the drawing board to find creative ways to attract more visitors to this destination. The best approach was to involve all stakeholders, including the county government, the private sector, and the local community," says Lucy Maruhi, founder of Shelter Tours and Gura River Nature Paradise.

Lucy Maruhi, Founder of River Gura Nature Paradise, Promotes River Gura Marketing During World Tourism Week Celebrations. ? Jefitha Mwai

According to Harrison Wahome, chairman of rivers emanating from the Aberdares, there is a need to raise awareness among Kenyans and local communities about tourism activities, especially along the Gura River.

"As stakeholders, we have developed plans and projects to market Tetu as a preferred destination for both local and international visitors. Our unique selling point is the Gura River," says Wahome.

Maruhi points out that the region offers a variety of tourism activities, including cultural-themed experiences like traditional dances, storytelling, coffee brewing, and traditional meals that showcase the way of life of the Agikuyu community.

"Above all, we are proud that Nyeri is home to the fastest-flowing river in Africa and the second-fastest-flowing river in the world. We invite domestic and foreign tourists to consider visiting the region to explore this unique river, enjoy therapeutic moments, and participate in adventurous activities, such as watching our local youth engage in daredevil jumps," said the entrepreneur.

Tetu Member of Parliament, Geoffrey Wandeto, who was the guest of honour during the celebrations, which included tree planting, a hike, traditional performances by the Gura Hikers, traditional coffee preparation, traditional meal making, basket weaving, and storytelling sessions, emphasized the Nyeri County Government's commitment to partnering with tourism sector stakeholders to develop tourism activities along the Gura River and other key attractions, such as the rich Mau Mau history, hiking, and fishing.

Lucy Maruhi, Founder of River Gura Nature Paradise, Promotes River Gura Marketing During World Tourism Week Celebrations. ? Jefitha Mwai

Maruhi highlighted that the celebrations aligned with this year's theme, "Tourism and Green Investments," identified by UNWTO as one of the key priorities for tourism's recovery and future growth and development. She noted that the future of tourism lies in "Transformative Travel," which is quickly gaining popularity. "Transformative travel is about not just travelling for leisure but also aiming to make a difference in both the lives of others and oneself," she explained.

World Tourism Day 2023, celebrated from September 27th to 30th, revolved around the global theme "Tourism and Green Investment." This event aimed to unite the world in improving tourism practices and economies, with a particular emphasis on 'green' investments that support local environments fostering tourism and natural resources.

"Nyeri County and other stakeholders, such as Gura River Nature Paradise, hope that by focusing on this approach and uniting the county, we may find new investment strategies to enhance global tourism, tourism economies post-pandemic, and the environment," added Wandeto.