By Peter Ochieng
Tourism Cabinet Secretary (CS) for tourism Dr. Alfred Mutua has revealed that the national government will partner with Bungoma county in mapping key tourist attraction sites in the Western region.
Speaking during a joint press conference with governor Ken Lusaka on Wednesday, Mutua said Bungoma has many tourist attraction sites that need to be promoted, in order to attract visitors and foreign investors.
The CS highlighted Nabuyole falls in Webuye, the elephant maternity in Mt. Elgon, Buteyo Miti Park, Sang’alo Cultural Centre and ‘Kamabeka,’ a signature Bukusu dance that involves vigorous shaking of shoulders as some of the best Bungoma has to offer.
He cited Nabuyole falls as a tourist gem. “The falls and the area around it could be developed as a hiking site. We are ready to support the county government in such a venture,” he said.
“Western Kenya boasts a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and ceremonies. Leveraging these cultural assets can create unique tourism experiences and generate revenue for local communities,” he added.
Mutua also hinted at partnering with Bungoma in organising a food festival, an annual event that will showcase Bungoma’s unique food to the rest of the country.
Governor Lusaka on his part said they had succesful engagements on how to improve the tourism circuit not just in Bungoma, but in Western Kenya.
“I am told when visitors come to Kenya, they only know Safari, Amboseli, Maasai Mara and all that but we want to demonstrate to the world that this part of Kenya also has good tourism attraction sites,” he said.
The two leaders said tourism in Western Kenya presents immense potential for economic growth and development but it faces numerous challenges hindering its full realisation.
However, the CS said the region lacks adequate hospitality infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of tourists.
“Investing in the construction of hotels, lodges, and guesthouses will enhance the visitor experience and prolong their stay in Western Kenya,” he added.
