Nairobi, 27th September 2024
The County Executive Committee Member for Inclusivity, Public participation and Customer Service Ms. Rosemary Kariuki today Visited City Park for a tree planting and clean up exercise to commemorate the World Tourism Day whose theme this year is “Tourism and Peace” aimed at highlighting the vital role tourism plays in fostering peace and understanding between nations and cultures and in supporting reconciliation processes.
The Day, commemorated annually, is an international celebration that highlights the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value. It is dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism, fostering global understanding and appreciating the cultural heritage and diversity that tourism brings to the world.
“On this World Tourism Day, let us reflect on the profound connection between tourism and peace. In line with H.E Governor Sakaja’s Manifesto our mandate as a sub sector is to forge activities that will attract tourists both locally and internationally. This day is intended to be a facilitator to enhance sustainable development and positive peace through the Tourism industry.” Said Ms. Rosemary.
The County Executive also went on to state that Sustainable Tourism provides a conducive environment for peaceful coexistence and hence improving the livelihoods of the local people as she advocated for collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that City Park and other tourist attraction are a safe space and enjoyable to Nairobians.
She said, “Today, as part of our celebration, we will plant trees and take part in a cleanup exercise. This is not just a way to beautify our park, as tourism takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts therefore by respecting our environment and promoting peace, we can make Nairobi a city of order, dignity, hope, and opportunities for all.”
Mr. Clement Rapudo the County Chief Officer for City Culture, Arts and Tourism said that this year’s focus highlights how tourism can be a powerful tool in promoting global understanding, cultural exchange, and peace, particularly in a world marked by ongoing conflicts. He also emphasized on the importance of conserving the environment stating that a clean and green Nairobi is vital for our health, our future, and the experiences we offer to our visitors.
The Deputy Director Tourism Ms. Susan Mukuhi stated that this year’s focus highlights how tourism can be a powerful tool in promoting global understanding, cultural exchange, and peace, particularly in a world marked by ongoing conflicts. She said, “Tourism offers a unique opportunity to build bridges between people, fostering empathy and cooperation across borders. Let us take care of the environment, promote mutual respect among people as we harness the power of tourism to advance peace and prosperity for all.”
Member of the County Assembly for Karura Hon Kamau Thuo, present at the event, stated that under the leadership of H.E Governor Sakaja the County Government is committed to making Nairobi a sustainable world class tourism destination not just in the region but also globally.
In attendance were Deputy Director Culture Ms. Stella Kemunto, Assistant Directors Administration Mr. Joseph Kamau, Raymond Cheruiyot CEO Tour operators society of Kenya and Culture and Tourism Officers serving under the sector.
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