Kenya has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of tourists visiting the country’s coastal region, dispelling concerns raised by recent media reports of an alleged attack on holidaymakers in Mombasa. Mombasa County Commissioner Mohamed Noor emphasized that the situation has been grossly misrepresented, clarifying that the actual incident involved the theft of a mobile phone by two street boys in the city’s Central Business District, not a coordinated attack on visitors as reported in some media outlets.
Speaking ahead of the busy Easter holiday period, Noor assured both local and international tourists that Kenya remains a safe and welcoming destination. He highlighted that comprehensive security measures are being implemented along the coast, with increased surveillance and police presence in tourist hotspots to safeguard both visitors and residents. The county commissioner confirmed that arrests have already been made in connection with the phone theft, and efforts are underway to apprehend additional suspects involved in petty crimes targeting tourists.
Tourism industry stakeholders have joined hands with security agencies to counter the negative impact of the media coverage. During a joint press briefing, representatives from the Kenya Coast Tourism Association (KCTA), Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers (KAHC), and Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) expressed concern over the sensationalism of the reports. They stressed that the mischaracterization of the incident risks undermining confidence in one of Kenya’s most vital economic sectors.
Victor Shitakha, Chairman of KCTA, warned that the misleading narrative surrounding the incident could have far-reaching consequences on tourism, a sector that contributes over 10 percent to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product. He called on the media to exercise greater responsibility in reporting matters affecting the tourism industry and urged for factual accuracy to prevent unwarranted panic among potential visitors. According to Shitakha, the recent portrayal of events was not only inaccurate but also unfairly painted Mombasa as unsafe, which contradicts the daily experiences of thousands of tourists who continue to enjoy peaceful visits to the coast.
The incident in question allegedly took place at the iconic Pembe za Ndovu landmark on Moi Avenue, a popular photo stop for tourists. Reports claimed that a group of over 50 youths accosted cruise ship passengers, resulting in the cancellation of planned tours in Mombasa and a return to their vessel. However, authorities have contested this version, stating that no tourists were physically harmed and reiterating that the event was an isolated case of theft, not an orchestrated attack.
Security has since been bolstered in key areas frequented by tourists, including Old Town and the central business district. County officials and officers from the Kenya Tourism Board and the National Police Service have also engaged with cruise operators to restore confidence among international visitors. Noor noted that Kenya remains vigilant and committed to the protection of all visitors and reiterated that the country’s coast remains a vibrant, secure, and hospitable destination for travelers from around the world.
