MAGICAL KENYA TRAVEL EXPO 2014
The fourth edition of the Magicalkenya Travel Expo was officially opened by the Deputy President William Samoei Ruto at the Kenyatta International Convention Center. During his official address, Hon Ruto described Kenya as a magical destination, pointing out that the magic is mainly four thronged. Kenya is the Cradle of Mankind, Kenya is home to the Big Five, Kenya is home to one the seven wonders of the modern world and Kenya offers Beach, Wild and an incredible picturesque topography.
The Deputy President also reiterated the government’s commitment to security stating that overall security had been upgraded throughout the country, with tourism receiving special attention.
"The safety of our visitors, tourist destinations and wildlife is key priority of the Government. In recognition of this, I am happy to note that friendly countries have withdrawn negative travel advisories which had undermined tourist numbers, inflicting severe shock to our economy. We are sustaining recovery efforts through the Tourism Recovery Task Force and the Tourism Safety, Security and Crisis Committee as well as robust investments in the sector," said Hon Ruto, who oversaw the official opening of MKTE in his capacity as Acting President.
And added, "Tourism is critical to our economy, generating 11% of our GDP and accounting for 9% of our employment. It is an economic pillar of our Vision2030. We are confident that tourism will contribute more to our economic development as it expands and diversifies. For this reason, the Government is investing intensively in projects and initiatives to expand, stabilise and maximise tourism."
The MagicalKenya Expo attracted more than 170 hosted buyers from 36 countries. This was noted by various speakers including the Acting President, as a major endorsement to the country as a prime and safe destination. There was also a special message from the UNWTO from the Secretary General Dr Taleb Rifai who had also sent a special delegation from the organization.
Other dignitaries present included the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Commerce, EA Affairs and Tourism Ms Phylis Kandie, KTB Managing Director Muriithi Ndegwa among others.
On his part, the KTB MD Muriithi Ndegwa noted with gratitude the various major endorsements that have helped reassure the markets that Kenya is safe and open for business. One such endorsement was from Richard Branson, who is also an investor in Kenya. He noted ‘‘Kenya is an incredible country full of wonderful people, that I have had the pleasure to spend time with on many occasions. I look forward to my next visit.’ Sir Richard Branson sentiments are shared daily via #WhyILoveKenya online campaign which KTB along with private sector earlier this year launched as part of the re assurance campaigns.
Captions
MKTE 1
His Excellency the Deputy President William Ruto delivering his keynote speech during the official opening the 2014 Magical Kenya Travel Expo.
MKTE 2
KTB Managing Director Muriithi Ndegwa
MKTE 3
Go Places Group MD Nev Jiwani and renowned eTN Travel Correspondent Dr. Wolfgang H. Thome
