Kwale county government has announced infrastructure plans to develop beach access roads and street lighting projects at a cost of Sh20 million to promote the tourism sector.
Governor Fatuma Achani says the beaches are great resources for coastal tourism development as they attract a large number of domestic and international tourists annually and called for the transformative enhancement of the tourism infrastructure.
The plans also include upgrading transportation infrastructure and creating new tourist attraction sites to offer innovative tourism experiences and in line with the county’s vision of improving the road network.
She says the improvements of beachfronts will make streets along the shores safer and brighter around the evenings while beach access 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 Sub County.
She underscored her administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure projects 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 strengths lies in tourism.
Governor Achani says the tourism infrastructure upgrade will ensure tourists visit attraction sites in a safe, comfortable and accessible manner.
Achani says 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 for 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, sunbathing and relaxation.
Diani beach is the preferred holiday destination for both 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 have seen the South Coast town voted the best destination beach in Africa for seven years in a row by the World Travel Awards.
Achani says Diani with its accessibility and diverse offerings makes it a popular choice for those looking to unwind by the sea.
She says 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 coastal county boss who was accompanied by County Trade and Tourism Executive Michael Mutua and his Social Services and Talent Management counterpart Francisca Kilonzo says her administration is out to promote Kwale’s potential as a beach and holiday destination.
Achanai has reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring the timely completion of 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,” said Achani.
Meanwhile, Achani who has been awarded the Woman of Excellence in Tourism 2024 by Kenya Association of Women in Tourism for her immense contribution to the massive growth of the tourism industry in Kwale.
Achani says the reward is also recognition for Diani Beach being voted the best beach destination in Africa for 7 years consecutively and the country’s efforts in promoting leisure tourism.
By Hussein Abdullahi
