Concerns Rise Among Mombasa's Tourism Sector Amid Ongoing Gen Z Protests

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Players in Mombasa’s tourism industry are increasingly anxious about the ongoing anti-government protests led by Gen Z, fearing significant impacts on their profits. Another round of demonstrations is set for Tuesday.
Hillary Siele, general manager of the Travellers Beach Hotel and Spa, noted on Friday that the protests have already affected their business, particularly since their main clientele comes from Nairobi, which has experienced severe disruptions due to the unrest. “The Gen Z voice has certainly impacted our business. Our primary market is Nairobi, especially in the MICE sector—meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions,” Siele stated.
He made these comments during the launch of the hotel’s new website, part of a rebranding initiative aimed at capturing a larger share of the industry. “With Nairobi locked down and movement restricted, our business in Mombasa has suffered,” Siele added.
The nationwide protests have led to the blockage of major highways, further hampering travel and tourism. “We’ve managed to survive mainly on the overseas market and local clientele, but the impact on our business is undeniable,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Siele expressed hope that the changes sparked by the protests are long overdue. “We need a vibrant country and a growing economy to encourage business growth,” he emphasized.
Siele and his colleagues in Kilifi raised concerns about the recent guidelines from the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), which restrict allowances for civil servants to distances of 50 km or more. Enacted in August 2023, these guidelines limit daily subsistence allowances (DSA), discouraging civil servants from hosting training and workshops at nearby hotels, thereby affecting MICE tourism.
Michael Mwiha, chairperson of the Kilifi South Hotels and Restaurant Association and general manager of Mtwapa Country Resort, commented on the detrimental effects of these guidelines: “We’ve lost business, employment opportunities have decreased, and facilities are struggling to sustain themselves.”
The SRC’s decision has created a ripple effect, negatively impacting not only hotels but also suppliers and local economies. “Hotels in Nairobi cannot accommodate the entire market. Government bookings often come too late, leading to fully booked hotels,” he explained.
Mombasa and the coastal region typically offer lower rates that attract visitors from Nairobi. “People prefer the peaceful environment of Mombasa for productive seminars and conferences. While Nairobi and Naivasha remain popular, Mombasa offers flexibility, allowing guests to work late without the usual traffic and security concerns,” Siele remarked.
He urged the government to foster a more open market. “We should allow for a win-win situation; after all, we are all part of the same community, and not everyone can work in government. That’s why we are in the private sector,” he concluded.