- The PS noted that the Tourism Training Revolving Fund emphasises the government's commitment to nurturing a vibrant tourism sector.
- Mwangi noted that for many years, a skills gap that threatened to limit the industry's potential and hinder the delivery of exceptional guest experiences.
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Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa has said Kenya's tourism industry is a critical component to the growth of the country’s economy.
Ololtuaa said that tourism remains key to Kenya’s wealth generation, creation of employment opportunities and showcasing Kenya’s unique cultural heritage to the world.
The PS made the remarks during the graduation of 300 students at the city’s Boma International Hospitality College.
The pioneer graduating students were from the third up-skilling programme facilitated by the Tourism Fund through the Tourism Training Revolving Fund in partnership with BIHC.
Tourism Fund Board of Trustees chairman Samson K Some and Tourism Fund Acting CEO David Mwangi hailed the tourism industry’s contribution to the growth of the country’s economy.
“A skilled and well-trained workforce is the lifeblood of this industry. The Tourism Training Revolving Fund signifies the government's commitment to nurturing a vibrant tourism sector,” Ololtuaa said.
The PS added that the initiative provides financial assistance, ensuring wider access to training programmes and empowering aspiring individuals within the tourism and hospitality industry.
The PS noted that the Tourism Training Revolving Fund emphasises the government's commitment to nurturing a vibrant tourism sector.
Ololtuaa noted that TTRF's inaugural graduation ceremony was a testament to a collaborative effort between the government, the tourism industry, and educational institutions.
“This programme is a beacon of hope, paving the way for a future where a skilled and empowered workforce drives the sustainable growth of Kenyan tourism,” he said.
Some noted that limited financial resources impede growth and realization of goals within the tourism sector.
“TTRF transcends the realm of financial instruments. It embodies a vision, a vision we share with esteemed institutions like BIHC. BIHC stands as a premier Pan-African hub for hospitality and culinary arts, fostering not only training and research but also consultancy,” Some said.
Mwangi noted that for many years, a skills gap threatened to limit the industry's potential and hinder the delivery of exceptional guest experiences.
The acting CEO noted that the Tourism Fund, recognising this challenge, spearheaded the creation of the TTRF to help bridge the gap.