New global trends call for specialised products and services in tourism

The national and county governments are now having to balance between sustainable tourism and urbanisation due to emerging global trends that have put pressure on the hospitality industry.

These new global trends include the world’s surging population, third world development, enhanced global finance networks, climate change and food security.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony of 107 workers from different hotels at the Indian Ocean Beach Resort, acting Kenya Utalii College Principal Kazungu Mwango said the trends, coupled with an increasingly informed clientele, have significantly put pressure on the demand for specialised products and services in the hospitality and tourism industry.

He added that the situation called for cooperation and strengthened partnerships which will create synergy and build an effective and robust framework for growth and sustainability.

“Training and capacity building is the foundation for the industry’s forward thrust.

“Without a well-trained workforce, all the attendants of an expanding and growing industry will not have much impact on the economy,” he said.

MAKE GOOD USE OF TRAINING

Mr Mwango urged the participants who had pursued refresher courses for a period of two weeks to make good use of the knowledge they had acquired in order to make a difference.

He added that it is only through knowledge and having the quest to advance even further that one can be take advantage of the immense possibilities available in the dynamic industry.

“I know some of your establishments will set ambitious targets for you now that you have enhanced your skills. Please go and make a difference,” he said.

Kwale County Tourism Chief Officer Anthony Mwamunga expressed confidence that the participants will make valuable contributions to the industry.

Mr Mwamunga acknowledged that the sector was currently not performing well saying the county government was doing everything within its powers to ensure that investors reap benefits.

“I would like to congratulate all the participants for successfully completing the course and also thank the Kenya Utalii College for conducting this two-week course,” he said.

The participants were trained on bar keeping techniques, reception techniques, communication skills, housekeeping supervision and buffet preparations.

The training came at a time when some hotels in Kwale County have been operating at an average of 40 per cent bed occupancy due to seasonal changes.