COASTAL COMMUNITIES SET TO BENEFIT AS CRUISE SEASON BEGINS IN MOMBASA.

By Patience Samba

                             Photo Courtesy

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has officially kicked off cruise tourism season, welcoming the luxury vessel SH Diana at the Port of Mombasa. The ship made history as the first cruise to spend four days in Kenya, having previously docked at Shimoni Port in Kwale County and Lamu Port.

KPA Chairman Benjamin Tayari emphasized the need for county governments to actively market local attractions to cruise visitors.

“When tourists arrive, we want them to have memorable experiences visiting cultural sites, buying local crafts, and dining at our restaurants. This is a chance for communities to benefit economically and for tourism to thrive sustainably,” Tayari said.

The cruise season is expected to boost local economies through increased business for hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Opportunities for artisans and cultural performers to showcase their crafts and heritage,jobs in transportation, hospitality, and port services.

                                Photo Courtesy

Residents in Kwale, Lamu, and Mombasa stand to gain from the spending by tourists, who often explore multiple destinations along the coastline during their visit.

Captain William Ruto also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining port facilities and working closely with tourism authorities to ensure that cruise visitors have safe, smooth, and memorable experiences, while supporting sustainable growth in coastal communities.

“Our goal is not only to welcome cruise ships but also to create long term benefits for Kenyans,” said Captain Ruto.

The arrival of the SH Diana marks a milestone for Kenya’s cruise tourism, signaling a renewed focus on positioning the country as a top African destination for luxury cruise travel.



 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Image
ZERO TOLERANCE TO FGM: KENYA PREPARES FOR INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATIONS BY PATIENCE SAMBA                                 Photo Courtsey   Improved health and safety for girls and women, increased school retention, strengthened protection of human rights and accelerated progress towards gender equality are among the key benefits Kenyans are expected to gain as the country intensifies the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Ending the practice reduces life threatening health complications, lowers the burden on families and health systems, empowers girls to complete their education and participate fully in social and economic development, and contributes to safer, more inclusive and productive communities across the country.                               Photo Courtsey   These gains will be underscored during...
Read more
Image
TSAVO RHINO SANCTUARY BOOSTS LOCAL AND NATIONAL GROWTH BY PATIENCE SAMBA                               Photo Courtsey  Residents of Taita Taveta will benefit from the expanded Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary through increased job opportunities in tourism, hospitality, transport and local businesses, alongside improved infrastructure and greater security that will create more economic openings in the region. President William Ruto said the growth of high-end tourism and fresh investments driven by the sanctuary will directly uplift local livelihoods, while at the national level the project strengthens Kenya’s global reputation in conservation, boosts tourism revenue and protects endangered black rhinos for future generations. He added that the initiative blends conservation, economic development and national pride, ensuring long-term gains for both Taita Taveta communities and the country at large.     ...
Read more
Image
RESOURCE CENTER EMPOWERS COAST GIRLS WITH TRAINING ON BOUNDARIES, CONSENT AND PERMISSION BY PATIENCE SAMBA        The Resource Center for Women and Girls has carried out training sessions across the Coast region to equip girls and women with essential life skills, including how to set personal boundaries, how to understand and give consent, and how to ask for permission in different situations. The non-governmental organisation has reached groups in Makupa, Mombasa County, and Kilifi County, conducting physical, interactive lessons aimed at empowering participants. Team member Rose Akinyi says the organisation works with women and girls across the country, offering practical guidance that promotes safety, confidence, and informed decision making.                                           Photo Courtsey    
Read more