The Kwale government has announced plans to develop beach access roads and streetlights at a cost of Sh20 million to promote tourism.
Governor Fatuma Achani said the beaches are great resources for coastal tourism development as they attract a large number of domestic and international tourists annually.
The plans include upgrading transport infrastructure and creating new tourist attraction sites to offer innovative tourism experiences.
The improvements of beachfronts will make streets along the shores safer and brighter in the evenings, while beach roads will provide more convenient access to the famous tourism destinations.
Achani spoke when she launched the commencement of works for the upgrade of Watatu Watano and Mvureni beach access roads and street lighting projects in Diani area of Msambweni subcounty.
She underscored her administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure throughout Kwale to drive economic growth for both tourists and residents.
“Upon completion of these roads and street lights the increased traffic volume to and from the beaches will experience fewer delays in travel time,” she said, noting that Kwale’s economic strength lies in tourism.
Governor Achani said the tourism infrastructure upgrade will ensure tourists visit sites in a safe, comfortable and accessible manner.
She said the beach roads and street lighting infrastructure in Diani, a paradise of sand, sea and culture, will transform the county’s tourism landscape.
“The installation of streetlights will enhance the safety and security of beachgoers and serve the buzzing 24-hour tourism businesses,” she said.
The stunning stretch of sand and sea in Diani beach offers something for everyone, from swimming to sunbathing and relaxation.
Diani beach is the preferred holiday destination for many domestic and foreign tourists and each year it receives a record number of holidaymakers arriving to savour its beautiful scenery.
The resort town of Diani, with its clear blue water and white sandy beaches, has seen the South Coast town voted the best destination beach in Africa for seven years in a row by the World Travel Awards.
Achani said Diani, with its accessibility and diverse offerings, makes it a popular choice for those looking to unwind by the sea.
With significant potential to drive economic growth and job creation, the tourism sector is increasingly an area of focus for investment by the devolved government.
The Kwale county boss, who was accompanied by trade and tourism executive Michael Mutua and his social services counterpart Francisca Kilonzo, said her administration is out to promote Kwale’s potential as a beach and holiday destination.
She has reaffirmed her commitment to timely completion of the ongoing projects across the county.
“My dedication to improving and making the beach accessible is expected to have a significant impact, enhancing the tourism experience, attracting more visitors, and stimulating economic growth in Diani and the entire county,” she said.
Meanwhile, Achani has been awarded the Woman of Excellence in Tourism 2024 by Kenya Association of Women in Tourism for her contribution to the massive growth of the tourism industry in Kwale.
The governor said the award is also a recognition for Diani Beach being voted the best beach destination in Africa for seven years consecutively and the county's efforts to promote leisure tourism.