Tourism stakeholders have strongly criticized a recent article published by The Standard Media Group, which they say presents misleading and exaggerated claims regarding the safety of cruise ship passengers.
The article, titled "Gang Attack Cruise Passengers Forcing Cancellations of Visits," alleges that over 50 armed gang members targeted tourists near the Pembe za Ndovu Monument, robbing them of valuables.
Industry leaders have condemned the report as sensationalist, warning that such misinformation could harm the country's tourism sector and undermine ongoing efforts to position the destination as a safe and welcoming hub for visitors.
Addressing the media at Mapembeni, chairman Kenya Coast Tourist Association (KCTA), Victor Shitakha, stated that the article contains claims that have caused unnecessary alarm both locally and internationally. "Sadly, this article has been picked up and published by international media and could potentially jeopardize the initiatives that Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and other stakeholders have been working on to ensure the return of more cruise liners to the port of Mombasa," he said.
