Kenya scoops top honours at Berlin tourism fair, wins second best continental exhibitor award

Kenya's tourism sector has received positive endorsement after it was ranked the second best country in Africa showcasing tourism products at the just concluded International Tourism Bourse (ITB) in Berlin, Germany.

Authentic safari and sustainable tourism concepts ranked the Kenyan exhibition stand after Rwanda, which emerged the best in Africa and globally. Kenya was positioned sixth best in the world.

"This is indeed a major boost that will positively go a long way in propelling the country's image globally as a tourism destination, we thank the tourism sector for its immense contribution towards this achievements," Kenya Tourism Board Managing Director Muriithi Ndegwa said on receiving the award in Berlin, Germany.

The over 40 travel trade representing Kenya at the exhibition termed the award good tidings coming at a time when the country was laying down recovery strategies to put the sector back on track after a dip in performance as a result of bad publicity occasioned by cases of insecurity.

"This has given us an edge and impetus towards sustained and innovative ways of meeting and satisfying varied preferences of our clients, "said Lake Bogoria Spa Resort General Manager Lydia Dentewo. Nature Expedition General Manager Richard Adika described the award as a testimony to the fact that Kenya was indeed a safari destination of choice.

Ndegwa disclosed that over the last two years, the tourism marketing agency has embarked on implementation of products diversification strategy, adoption of new promotion strategies and increased sustainable efforts in collaboration with the private sector.

"This award is an outstanding endorsement on the investment we have made in positioning Kenya as the premier tourism destination in Africa, and a worthy competitor in the global platform" he added.

The trade show that took place from March 4 to 8, attracted over 10,000 exhibitors from around 190 countries and regions, attracting over 100,000 trade visitors.