The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has renewed its partnership with the world Marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge as the Magical Kenya Ambassador.
Speaking Thursday during the ceremony held at Karura Forest, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala said the partnership will not only focus on destination marketing, but also in showcasing the country’s conservation efforts to the world.
“Our journey with Kipchoge commenced in 2020 right after the Covid-19 pandemic was recorded in the country. His role as destination ambassador has been important, especially during the period when there was less travel,” said Balala.
He said during the pandemic, Kipchoge helped in creating awareness about the destination as well as marketing and showcasing Magical Kenya to the world.
The CS noted that Kipchoge’s global profile, patriotism, passion for the destination and conservation makes him the ideal ambassador for Kenya in the second phase of the partnership, spanning a period of six months.
Speaking during the event, Eliud Kipchoge said he was honored to renew his partnership with Magical Kenya as destination ambassador, noting that his love for the country made the engagement fulfilling to him.
“I am delighted to renew this partnership with Magical Kenya, it is a great honor to be given the responsibility to represent my country as its Tourism Ambassador,” he said.
The renowned marathoner added, “This role has made me learn a lot about my country. For instance, in 2020 I was able to witness the great wildebeest migration and today I am at Karura Forest which is an important conservation ecosystem in the country.”
Kipchoge added that the tourism industry had suffered a lot during the Covid -19 pandemic, hence required support from all citizens especially during this time when the sector is looking forward to a comeback.
Tourism PS Zeinab Hussein stated that Kipchoge interfaces well between the local and international market which is important for the destination and ensures that the interest of travelers from across the world is aroused.
She noted that Kipchoge should visit more circuits to promote the destination and also grace key Magical Kenya events that will give him the much needed opportunity to get an interface with key stakeholders as well as enhance his influence to grow the sector.
By Michael Mulinge
