Manyora calls tourism players to order, urges them to cooperate

By Peter Ochieng

Famed political analyst, commentator and University of Nairobi don Professor Herman Manyora has urged Western region tourism sector players to forge a common front, if they hope to reap big time from the sector’s untapped economic potential, going into the future.

The Western region tourism circuit comprises 13 counties of Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Bomet, Kericho, Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Kakamega and Vihiga, with Nandi lying on the border of North Rift and Western region.

Delivering his keynote address during the 2024 Western Kenya Tourism Symposium at the Lovely Garden Guest Home (LGGH) in Mkendwa, Kisumu County on Friday, Prof. Manyora said stakeholder partnerships will propel the tourism sector to higher economic heights.

“Cooperation yields much more than competition,” he said.

“In modern business, networking is the game. Find a way of working together to create the necessary infrastructure so as to enable effective marketing,” he added.

Through tourism, he said, the region has the ability to provide gainful employment to residents, preventing them from having to provide cheap labour in the Capital, Nairobi.

“We recognize the pivotal role tourism plays in economic growth, community development and environmental conservation.”

As stakeholders continue to put measures in place towards making Western region the tourism destination of choice, the political commentator reminded them of the need to guard against cultural pollution, child prostitution and sex tourism.

“Our tourism must bring maximum benefits and alleviate alarming poverty levels, but we must also guard against effects of a booming tourism ecosystem, such as drug and substance abuse,” added Prof. Manyora.

Underscoring the economic potential of the industry, David Mwangi, Chair, Nakuru County Tourism Association said the sector employs 1 in every 10 people in the world.

He urged Western region county governments to identify a tourism niche in their respective areas, and massively invest around it.

“When you identify what brings people to Kisumu for instance, invest around it and you will surely reap the benefits,” emphasised Mwangi.

On her part, Lilian Kobe from the Lave Victoria Tourism Association called on stakeholders to leverage on technology in marketing the region.

Kisumu is set to host the Festac Africa Festival, from August 25 to Sep 01, 2024.

Kakamega County Deputy Governor (DG) Ayub Savula and Farida Salim, Kisumu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Trade and Tourism were among other speakers.

The two county officials extended their hand of cooperation to stakeholders, in order to ensure the sector thrives.

The symposium’s venue, LGGH is located in Mkendwa village, 9.6 kilometres from Kisumu CBD.

Its location on the windward side provides a cooler climate compared to the hot temperatures of Kisumu CBD, making it an ideal retreat for travellers seeking tranquillity and comfort.

At Lovely Garden Guest Home, one gets nestled right inside nature, coupled with cool vibes, clean spaces, personalised attention with homely services from friendly staff.

“We are for memorable events, cosy accommodation, delicious meals and refreshing drinks. LGGH is more than just a hotel, it is home away from home anytime you are in Kisumu,” the management says.

Cleanliness, friendliness, quality service, reliability and consistency are some of the values embraced at LGGH.