Kenya Becomes First Country Globally to Receive 'Safe Tourism Seal' Award

Kenya has become the first country in the world to be awarded the recommended status of the "Safer Tourism Seal" by the Rebuilding Travel umbrella group.

The award was presented to Kenya’s Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala in a virtual event attended by global tourism leaders under the Rebuilding Travel umbrella.

Rebuilding Travel is a global pro-tourism industry group composed of tourism boards, ministers of tourism, professional associations, industry stakeholders, researchers, academics and travelers.

CS Balala termed the award as a testimony of Kenya’s commitment to ensuring travelers' safety in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"As a destination, we have put together health and safety measures that are aimed at ensuring the safe reopening of the tourism sector. This is to ensure that our citizens, travelers, and workers are well protected.”

“On behalf of my country I am happy to receive this recognition that shows we are headed in the right direction in regard to the COVID-19 safety protocols," said Balala in a statement on Wednesday.

The award is key in building travelers’ confidence in the destination as international travel slowly resumes and hospitality outlets reopen following the Covid-19 disruption, according to Balala.

"The seal which is a recognizable symbol throughout the world will be key to positioning Kenya as a safe and preferred destination," he noted.

“To receive this recognition, a destination must address key aspects known as “tourism surety” through ensuring, travelers’ safety, security, destination’s reputation, economic viability, and health.”