Kenya’s minister for tourism has hit out at the UK Foreign Office's advice about the safety of his country, saying it is too cautious.
Speaking at World Travel Market in London this week, Najib Balala said the UK had not fully analysed the situation and that the US advice was more positive and up to date.
Kenya has suffered from a number of kidnappings this year, including two British tourists in September, one of whom was killed.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against going within 60km of the Somali Border, or along coastal areas within 150km of the Kenya/Somalia border.
“Kenya is a safe destination. We have had our problems but the Government came in with full force and has beefed up security,” he said.
He said security personnel had been increased and made more visible, especially in the Lamu area, with police boats on patrol and helicopters on standby.
He claimed tourism is up 16% so far for 2011 and the security situation has not seriously affected the number of visitors to date.
by Emma Russell
