Madukha Tours & Safaris - Africa Travel News

United States Embassy Nairobi

 

P.O. Box 606 Village Market

00621 Nairobi, Kenya

Tel: + 254-2-363-6000

Fax: +254-2-363-6157

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                        April 23, 2008

 

 

AN OPEN LETTER TO AMERICAN TRAVELERS AND BUSINESSPEOPLE

FROM U.S. AMBASSDOR TO KENYA MICHAEL E. RANNEBERGER

 

Dear Fellow Citizens:

I’m sure many of you have been following recent events in Kenya, specifically the crisis triggered by the sharply disputed results of elections held in late December.  The resulting problems, including significant violence, were covered widely by the international media.  This unfortunate chain of events led to a great deal of short-term damage to the Kenyan economy, and especially to the country’s dynamic and world-class tourism industry. 

 

Kenya faces formidable challenges in repairing the damage done by January’s political crisis, but I can report that there have been positive developments that are opening up the economic climate and making Kenya once again the perfect locale for business and tourism.  The country’s rival political camps reached a landmark power-sharing agreement on February 28, and Parliament acted quickly to codify this through a constitutional amendment.  President Kibaki and the Honorable Raila Odinga - now prime minister-designate - are working closely together to forge this new coalition of parties in a new spirit of goodwill and unity.  At the same time, the private sector and development partners are committing additional assistance to Kenya’s economic recovery and development.  The U.S. recently pledged an additional $25 million in new assistance to help in the reconciliation and reconstruction efforts.

 

Kenya is re-energized and is once again a country on the move.   Kenya is a regional distribution center for trade across East Africa, home to the largest regional financial industry, and is investing aggressively in communications and transportation infrastructure.  This is an extraordinarily good moment for those with an eye for business opportunities to take a close look at East Africa, and at Kenya.   I urge you to look again at Kenya as an exciting destination for tourism and for doing business, be it trade or investment.   In 2007, a record 102,000 Americans visited Kenya, many to enjoy the richness of the country’s culture and the majesty of its landscapes and unparalleled wildlife.  Others came to look for business opportunities or to engage in cultural and academic exchanges with Kenyan counterparts. 

 

But the main reason I am writing to invite you to give Kenya another look is the great partnership we have created between the U.S. and Kenya. During the recent crisis, the Kenyan people demonstrated once again their resolute commitment to representative democracy by exerting pressure on the polarized political leadership to achieve an accord.  The U.S. strongly supported the Kenyan people to bring this about.  As a result, U.S. stock in Kenya has never been higher (polls over the last year showed an 85 percent approval rating even before U.S. efforts during the crisis).  Our friendship is based on the reality of the huge partnership between the United States and Kenya.  On the one side, about $2 billion flows to Kenya annually from all sources in the U.S. (U.S. Government assistance, remittances, foundations and NGOs, trade, private sector investment, and tourism), while the U.S. mission here is the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting the importance of the bilateral relationship (and Kenya’s importance as an anchor of stability in this crucial region).  On the other side, the United States hosts the largest Kenyan Diaspora anywhere in the world, and more Kenyan students than from any other sub-Saharan African country.

 

I urge you to read the U.S. State Department’s Travel Warning for Kenya, available at www.state.gov.  It is in place due to ongoing problems of crime and terrorism in Kenya that pre-date January’s civil unrest.  It does not recommend against travel to Kenya.  It is similar to travel warnings issued for several dozen other countries, many of which are also close friends of the U.S. 

 

I hope you’ll consider visiting Kenya as a tourist or businessperson in 2008.  The country is very much back in business and this is an exciting time to be here.  There is a tangible spirit of renewed hope and opportunity.  You’ll find Kenyans to be welcoming and warm.   I hope to see you here soon!  I assure you that we will do our utmost to provide appropriate support and assistance for your engagement in Kenya.  Karibu Kenya!

 

Monday 14^th April 9 p.m. Nairobi

 

POLITICAL UPDATE:

 

Yesterday President Kibaki announced the composition of the new power-sharing cabinet, finally ending the political uncertainty and tensions of recent weeks. The ministers in the new coalition government have all been named and the cabinet positions have been shared equally between the two sides, while Mr Odinga is confirmed in the position of Prime Minister. Supporters of both sides of the political divide have expressed relief that the power-sharing arrangement is now finally in place and there is a new sense of unity and calm throughout the country. It is now considered most unlikely that we will see any more ethnic clashes or political demonstrations linked to post-election disputes since we have a political settlement that is acceptable to all sides. The business community and Kenyans as a whole are eager to work together to ensure that the country gets back to normal and that the economy recovers from the effects of the post-election crisis. The new Minister of Tourism is Hon Najib Balala who hails from the coast and has close connections with the tourism industry. He immediately confirmed that he will be recommending to the government as a priority that funds should be committed to undertaking a marketing campaign in the overseas markets to promote tourism to Kenya.

 

SECURITY UPDATE:

 

Today members of the illegal Mungiki organisation blocked roads in several high density housing estates around Nairobi and disrupted traffic on some routes into the city as well as in some other towns such as Naivasha, Thika and Nyeri. The Mungiki placed rocks and burning tyres on some roads early this morning to disrupt traffic and to intimidate the local residents. The police intervened and cleared these barricades with the support of members of the public so that traffic could proceed.

 

It must be stressed that the actions carried out today by adherents of Mungiki are not connected in any way to political disagreements relating to the post-election crisis. Mungiki started originally as a quasi-religious sect promoting traditional beliefs but are reported to have evolved into a criminal organisation which has preyed on disadvantaged people living in the slums around Nairobi, and in high density housing estates in a few other urban areas. They are reported to have been involved in extortion and demands for payments of “protection money” on various matatu transport routes. The Mungiki are reported to be protesting against the killing of the wife and driver of their jailed leader Maina Njenga who was convicted previously and sent to prison. The protests are also said to be an attempt to pressurize the government to release their leader from prison. It was reported that ninety Mungiki suspects have been arrested today and a number engaging in acts of violence were shot dead by police. The police spokesman stated that the police are determined to crack down firmly to stop the violent destruction of property and illegal disruption of business and transport by the Mungiki and to prevent further disturbances.  

 

The Kenya Tourism Federation monitored the situation from early this morning so that tour operators could be advised to avoid the problem areas. Most roads were cleared quickly so that vehicles were able to drive in and out of Nairobi and there was no disruption of traffic from the city centre hotels to the airport so tourists arriving or leaving were not affected. It is hoped that the police will be able to bring the situation under control soon and a further update will be issued tomorrow. The protestors are not interested in targeting tourists in any way and their actions have been more of a nuisance in disrupting traffic and obliging tour operators to take alternative routes rather than posing any threat to the safety of our visitors.

OTHER NEWS:

 

Kenyans were in a celebratory mood following the announcement of the new Grand Coalition Government and the news that Kenyan athlete Martin Lel had won the London Marathon in a record-breaking time – another first for Kenya!

 

Jake Grieves-Cook

Spokesman

Kenya Tourism Federation

 

The international community yesterday pledged to support the soon-to-be established coalition government to put the country back on the path of stability and economic prosperity. The United States and German envoys said the opening of Parliament and the commitment of President Kibaki to the coalition accord were indicative of leaders’ resolve to stabilise the country. US ambassador Michael Ranneberger and his German counterpart Walter Lindner were optimistic that both President Kibaki and ODM leader Raila Odinga had shown their determination to work together and implement wide ranging reforms that will place the country on a competitive economic and political pedestal. Common ground They saluted President Kibaki’s speech in which he outlined his determination to see through the clauses of the National Accord which he signed last week with Mr Odinga. Mr Lindner said President Kibaki’s address depicted the spirit of coalition governments.  “It truly showed the spirit of a coalition and it appears that they have already talked about the projects that they want to implement.” In his address, the President regretted the post-election violence and revealed that the deal was signed out of their desire to listen to Kenyans. The Head of State said coalition partners would harmonise their manifestos. Mr Lindner said every grand coalition needed a common ground. “That is exactly what we do back in Germany,” he said. They had attended the State opening of the second session of the 10th Parliament which was summoned by President Kibaki to prepare the way for a coalition government and create the positions of prime minister and two deputies. Mr Odinga, who attended the session in his capacity as the ODM leader and MP for Lang’ata, sat in the seat of the Official Opposition leader. Reconciliation Bill The two envoys were categorical that Parliament must move quickly and enact four Bills which were meant to create the coalition government and the posts. Mr Lindner said the Bills—the National Accord and Reconciliation Bill, the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, the Establishment of Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission Bill  and the Establishment of the Ethnic Relations Commission of Kenya Bill —were urgent. Mr Ranneberger said the US had committed  Sh1.75 billion ($25 million) above its budgetary allocation in the country to assist in the resettlement of displaced persons and reconstruction. Pledging similar support, Mr Lindner said Germany had given Sh232 million (euros 2.5 million) to help in the resettlement of displaced people and plans were at an advanced stage to increase the kitty. Energy minister Kiraitu Murungi said the deal should be anchored in the Constitution. However, he said MPs should be mandated to elect the President in future. The minister argued that Kenyans largely voted on tribal lines “and that is why every community feels short-changed if their own member who contested the top seat is not the winner.” “We should adopt a parliamentary system because voting in this country is ethnic and we cannot change that overnight. Let us abolish direct election of the President and let MPs play that role.” Sabatia MP Musalia Mudavadi (ODM) was optimistic that MPs would unite to pass the Bills necessary to create the posts of prime minister and two deputies, and also implement the peace deal. ODM Kenya nominated MP Mohammed Affey said the President’s speech “set the tempo for national reconciliation” and asked leaders to rise above ethnic biases and unite the country. Government coalition Chief Whip George Thuo called on MPs from different political parties to fast-track the Bills proposed by the President for legislation. The MP also asked first-time colleagues to “prove that new brooms sweep cleaner” by mastering House rules of procedure and work harder. ODM nominated members Millie Odhiambo and Rachel Shebesh said the speech was “comprehensive but did not have strong language on other important matters such as Affirmative Action and trafficking in persons.” Ms Shebesh supported the Government’s plans to amend the Local Government Act to allow Kenyans directly elect mayors and chairpersons of councils. Tigania West MP Kilemi Mwiria (PNU) asked all political leaders to respect the peace agreement. “This experience (violence) has taught us a lot and we must make sacrifices for the sake of Kenya,” he said. Livestock sector Dujis MP Bare Dwale (ODM) praised the  proposal to revamp the livestock sector. Another ODM-K nominated MP member Shakila Abdallah asked all leaders to “work as a team” and pass as many Bills required for national reconstruction and healing as possible. Mukurwe-ini MP Kabando wa Kabando (Safina) urged colleagues to urgently amend the laws to allow for direct sale of coffee by farmers and also revamp the tourism industry. His counterpart from Mt Elgon, Mr Fred Kapondi (ODM), said the President’s speech adequately touched on issues agreed on by ODM and PNU. Eldoret North MP William Ruto (ODM) described the 10th Parliament as unique noting that it did not matter who would be in Government as long as the necessary reforms were passed in the House and implemented. Butula member Alfred Odhiambo (ODM) asked leaders to respond more keenly to public wishes and pass more Bills of national importance. Mr Mutula Kilonzo of Mbooni said the Bills represented the totality of what negotiators agreed on at Nairobi’s Serena Hotel and would end violence if implemented.

REF                 :           KATO CIRCULAR /FEBRUARY- 08/31

 

DATE              :           29^th February, 2008

 

TO                   :           All KATO Members

 

Dear Member,

 

KENYA SITUATION UPDATE: 28^th February 2008 11:00p.m.

 

The following is an update from KTF for your information and use to update your Agents.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

Fred Kaigua

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

 

KENYA TOURISM FEDERATION DAILY UPDATE

 

Thursday 28th February 2008, 11 p.m. Nairobi

 

POLITICAL UPDATE:

 

Today was a momentous occasion in Kenya’s history as the news flashed around the world that an agreement had been signed between the two Kenyan political leaders, President Kibaki and Hon Odinga, to end the political impasse following the disputed elections two months ago and to restore peace and harmony to the country.

The agreement was the result of a five-hour meeting today attended by President Kikwete of Tanzania who is the current Chairman of the African Union, and Mr Kofi Annan who has performed the role of mediator, with the participation of both President Kibaki and Hon Raila Odinga.

At a press conference called this afternoon in Nairobi following the successful conclusion of the meeting, Kofi Annan announced that a power-sharing agreement had been achieved. The political settlement agreed upon by both party leaders has created the new post of Prime Minister, to be held by Raila Odinga, with a coalition government of the two main parties in which cabinet posts would be shared between them. Parliament will convene next Thursday to pass a constitutional amendment to approve the changes agreed upon.

Speaking after the signing of the agreement, President Kibaki said, “As a nation there are more issues that unite than divide us. We’ve been reminded we must do all in our power to safeguard the peace that is the foundation of our national unity. Kenya has room for all of us if we can enhance peace and tolerance. Fellow Kenyans, we stand before you to give a solemn commitment.”

Raila Odinga thanked Kofi Annan for his role in achieving the historic agreement. He also recognised Mr Kibaki as President. He stated that although they had been competitors during the elections they were now fellow countrymen.  “In the past two months, Kenyans have known nothing but sadness,” he said. “We have now opened a new chapter in our history, from the era of confrontation to the beginning of cooperation. We should ensure that Kenyans begin to celebrate and love each other, that we destroy the monster that is called ethnicity. I will ensure that what we have developed today will succeed.”

The power-sharing agreement at last brings the two opposing sides together in a coalition government on terms agreeable to all and has provided the political solution which had been sought to allow the country to recover from the trauma and civil unrest which followed the announcement of the election results.

Kenyans throughout the country were celebrating this evening and hopes are high that this will restore Kenya to its position as one of the most stable and successful countries in Africa. All the indications are that the overwhelming majority of Kenyans are delighted to see an end to the political stalemate and tension. The feeling of relief was evident among people everywhere and for the first time in weeks optimism was high as many Kenyans expressed their hopes for a better future.

SECURITY SITUATION IN KENYA:

 

The security situation throughout Kenya was calm and peaceful in all areas with a mood of relief and celebration following the announcement of the power-sharing agreement.

 

 

Jake Grieves-Cook

Spokesman

Kenya Tourism Federation