The Kwale County Government is ramping up efforts to position itself as a prime tourism destination following significant wins at the 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA).
These awards recognized various Kwale attractions and resorts, further enhancing its profile on the global tourism stage.
The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, celebrate excellence in the tourism industry, with winners setting a benchmark for quality worldwide.
This year, Kwale’s iconic Diani Beach was named ‘Africa’s Leading Beach Destination’ for the eighth consecutive year at the award ceremony held at Diamonds Leisure Beach and Golf Resort.
Other notable achievements for Kwale included Leopard Beach Resort and Spa, which won Africa’s Leading Hotel Residences 2024; Baobab Resort and Spa, named Africa’s Leading Family Resort; and Chale Island, crowned Africa’s Leading Private Island Resort.
Diamonds Leisure Beach and Golf Resort also took home two prestigious titles as Kenya’s Leading Resort and Africa’s Leading Resort for the second year in a row.
Governor Fatuma Achani lauded the awards as a significant honor for the county and its tourism stakeholders, vowing to leverage this recognition to boost tourism.
“Our breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and top-notch hospitality services continue to receive global acclaim,” she said.
“Our administration is dedicated to advancing the tourism sector, a vital economic pillar for Kwale and the coastal region.”
Governor Achani emphasized the county’s commitment to sustainable tourism, calling on both international and local travellers to experience the pristine beaches and unique cultural heritage of Diani.
She highlighted Diani’s accessibility and appeal as a go-to destination for relaxation and adventure along the Indian Ocean.
Achani also expressed gratitude to the private sector for its contributions to Kwale’s tourism success, urging even greater investment in the industry.
“We are committed to creating a conducive environment for investors and strengthening public-private partnerships to elevate the sector,” she said, extending an invitation to new stakeholders to join Kwale’s tourism journey.
Diamonds Leisure Beach and Golf Resort General Manager Andrew Cook welcomed the awards as a boost to tourism development in Kwale and Kenya.
“This recognition solidifies Kwale’s place on the global map and encourages further investment in tourism,” he noted.
Dr. Sam Ikwaye, Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers Coast branch executive officer, echoed these sentiments, stating that Diani Beach, with its blend of sun, sea, and palm-lined shores, remains a dream holiday destination for many.
With an award-winning beach and world-class resorts, Kwale County is now setting its sights on becoming a tourism powerhouse, attracting visitors to the unparalleled beauty and hospitality of Diani and beyond.
