The government of Kenya has instituted a number of initiatives to encourage tourism. Beginning next month the country has waived the visa fee for children less than 16 years of age and capped Park fees at US $60 down from US$90.

President Uhuru Kenyatta made the announcement while launching Marina English Point Hotel in Mombasa. The Visa fee waiver for children below 16 years of age applies to all nationalities and is aimed at positioning Kenya as a family holiday destination to encourage more family visitors into the country. Charter incentives

The new incentives add to the charter incentives that came into effect from January this year. The incentives include a passenger subsidy of US $30 per seat filled with international passengers who terminate or disembark in Kenya. Charter airlines will need to ensure that 80 percent of their passengers terminate in Malindi or Mombasa as well as commit to operate the Kenyan route for at least two consecutive years to qualify for the programme.

Landing fee for all charter airlines terminating their journeys at the Kenyan coast has also been waived in the programme that will run till June 30th 2018. It be reviewed after six months to suit prevailing market conditions and based on performance. Kenyatta said the move was aimed at increasing tourism numbers especially to the coastal region that has borne the brunt of a dip in tourist numbers.

On infrastructure, the president said the Dongo Kundu by pass will be speeded up noting that once completed, it will allow tourists to get from the mainland to the South Coast without having to use the ferry.

He said the expansion of Malindi Airport will also deliver convenience for visitors to the region with direct flights.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala said the incentives have given a new lease on life to the tourism industry and noted that his ministry has embarked on implementation of the programmes in collaboration with the private sector.