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| Tourism CS Najib Balala photo (File) |
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has reiterated its commitment to compensate Kenyans affected by wildlife but admits underfunding by government.
“Some are
taking advantage of this. We have a team that will look into the whole issue
and only genuine people will receive compensation” Balala warned
Speaking to the media in Mombasa on Wednesday Tourism
and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib
Balala however said the human wildlife
conflict bill stands at Kshs 1billion while the ministry is operating on a
budget of Ksh 277 billion.
“I want to be understood here, wildlife do not
belong to the CS. It belongs to all of us as Kenyans. Kenyans must be
responsible” the CS noted
He says the ministry has been allocated a total of
277 million adding that it is a challenge to the entire process.
The ministry has however cautioned Kenyans against
taking advantage of the initiative.
The CS says there is a need to address the issue of
human wildlife conflict compensation.
“The bill stands at 1 billion while our budget is
277 million. This is where the challenge is. There is a need for the ministry
to carry out compensation to the genuinely affected”
On the issue of travel ban issued by the United States
of America following the terrorist attacks recently, the tourism boss accused
foreign embassies on claims of blowing up proportions.
Balala further appealed to the embassies to
collaborate with the ministry in a bid to address such challenges.
“Terrorism is an international issue. I appeal to embassies
to work together with the ministry. It is no use blowing out figures. This has
a negative effect on our economy as a country” he said
The tourism ministry boss noted that such travel
advisories not only affect the tourism sector economy at large.
He urged Coast counties to proactively address
challenges facing tourism in the region.
Mr Balala lauded efforts by the Coast counties in
dealing with challenges emanating from the tourism sector.
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