Kenya shines at world trade fair

By Philip Mwakio

Last month was the annual World Travel Market (WTM), which was held in London, UK. Kenya was represented by Kenya Tourist Board (KTB) at the event that attracted over 100 countries and was described as the largest ever trade exhibition.

KTB led a pack of 48 other exhibitors drawn from airlines, hotels, tours and travel firms and county councils.

At the Magical Kenya stand, KTB Managing Director, Mureithi Ndegwa, and his team, showcased Kenya as a preferred tourist destination. Fiona Jeffrey, WTM Chairman was quoted saying that a phenomenal Sh143 billion of travel industry deals were done as a result of participating in WTM 2009. This year’s figures were according to the events’ organisers, poised to be even higher.

Magical Kenya stand sandwiched between the Tanzanian, South African and Ethiopian stands was an instant attraction. From the well laid out stand, attractive uniforms worn by the staff to the sensational magical drink (Dawa) on offer, the stand was a must visit.

Dawa a brainchild of the Tamarind Group, is made from Vodka, honey, lime, sugar and ice cubes. John Wambugu, the WTM 2010 Kenya organising committee chairman in an interview, said showcasing Kenya in the United Kingdom (UK) has immense advantages.

"The chord joining Kenya and Britain cannot be cut. Kenya is where Queen Elizabeth was enthroned and it is also the final resting place for the founder of the Boy Scout Movement, Lord Baden Powell," said Wambugu.

Good year

According to Mureithi, 2010 got off to good start with visitors from the UK increasing by five per cent to 72,031 in the first half up from 68,604 in 2009.

During the trade fair, Mozambique used the occasion to market the 2011 All Africa Games, which it will host. Among the rare participation was Iraq — the scene of consistent conflicts since the fall of Saddam Hussein.

According to Fadhil al – Saaegh an Iraqi and owner of a tour firm, al Rafidain his firm has been taking between ten and 50 visitors annually from the UK to see Iraq’s culture, history and beauty.

The World’s shortest man, Khagenda Thapa Magar from Nepal graced his country’s stand to help market it as a tourist destination.

To give impetus to the importance of Kenyan participation were two of foreign envoys accredited to UK and Ireland respectively.

Ephrahim Ngare, Kenyan High Commissioner to UK and Ambassador Catherine Mwangi, representing Kenya in Ireland played their part in marketing the country.