Sirisia MP John Waluke. PHOTO/UGC.. By SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT. [email protected]. Sirisia MP John Waluke has requested a statement from the chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife regarding the declining performance of Kenya’s tourism sector.. Mr Waluke emphasized that tourism is a vital sector, significantly contributing to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), employment, and foreign exchange earnings.. However, he noted that the sector has recently experienced a decline, marked by reduced international tourist arrivals and expenditure.. Mr Waluke pointed out that neighbouring countries, including Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, have surpassed Kenya in attracting tourists due to more competitive pricing, such as lower park fees, and enhanced infrastructure development.. He highlighted that high park fees in Kenya are a major deterrent for potential tourists, especially when compared to similar destinations in the region.. This trend, he argued, undermines Kenya’s ability to compete as a leading tourist destination, affecting revenue, livelihoods, and conservation of its unique biodiversity.. Against this backdrop, Mr Waluke sought a statement from the chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife.. He requested information on comparative tourism policies, pricing models, and marketing approaches used by neighboring countries in East Africa and other global leaders in tourism.. Additionally, he asked the committee to explain the impact of the decline in the tourism industry on the economy, medium, small, and micro enterprises operating in the sector, local communities, and conservation efforts.. Mr Waluke also inquired about sustainable measures in place to reverse the tourism decline and position Kenya competitively as a premier tourist destination. His request for a statement was made pursuant to Standing Order 44(2).. However, even as Mr Waluke is requesting for a statement from the chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife over the decline in the tourism sector, there have been contradicting reports about Kenya’s tourism sector.. While some reports indicate that Kenya’s tourism industry is declining, others indicate the sector is actually recovering well from the COVID-19 pandemic, with projections of significant growth in tourist arrivals and earnings by 2025.
