Despite the numerous travel advisories that have cast a dark shadow at Kenya’s tourism industry, the country continues to be a favorite safari and beach destination as witnessed during the 22nd World Travel Awards (WTA) where Kenya emerged as a big winner.

Kenya’s tourism facilities scooped nine awards in various categories during the gala event held at the Kempinski resort in Seychelles, which was attended by players of the tourism industry from across the globe.

The country’s Tourism Board (KTB) led the pack by defending its title as Africa’s leading tourism board for the fourth year in a row

The popular Maasai Mara Game Reserve was voted as Africa’s leading National Park with Diani beach was acknowledged as Africa’s leading beach destination.

Twiga Tours was crowned as Africa’s leading luxury safari destination as well as Africa’s responsible tourism company.

Enashipai Resort in Naivaisha was crowned as Kenya’s leading spa while Nairobi Serena scooped two awards; Kenya’s leading business and also the country’s green hotel.

Carlson Wagonlit topped as Kenya’s leading travel Management Company as well as Kenya’s leading travel company.

According to Commerce and Tourism Principal Secretary Dr Ibrahim Mohammed who had attended the event, the outstanding performance by the industry will go a long way in building the country’s brand equity and called on the players in the sector to continuously improve on their service delivery.

“Hospitality industry has to keep pace with the changing needs of clientele and therefore a need for constant improvement of product and services. These awards Kenyan travel trade has received today are a demonstration of improvement in services,” he said.

The World Travel Awards aims to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.