MOMBASA, Kenya, Nov. 10 -- Kenyan authorities said on Friday that they have beefed up security ahead of next week's cultural festival in the coastal town of Lamu targeting to boost tourism sector that has been worse hit due to insecurity challenges.
Lamu County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo said security agents will provide armed escort for foreign and domestic tourists during the 17th Lamu Cultural festival to be held on Nov. 16.
Kitiyo said all private and public vehicles must be accompanied by police because of threats presented by al-Shabaab terrorists.
"As a precaution, we are advising visitors to move in a convoy under security escort. We have made arrangements to ensure the festival goes uninterrupted," he assured.
The government official also said security has been beefed up on the island and its environs.
He added that the Boni Enclave Campaign has greatly reduced terror threats by militants who target police and civilians and operate from Boni Forest.
Kitiyo said hotels on the island have received bookings for the event that highlights the Swahilis' rich culture and heritage. The festival takes place in the archipelago from Thursday until Sunday.
Sam Ikwaye, Coast Executive of the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers, said they are expecting more local and foreign tourists.
"The festival has always improved so we anticipate the numbers will increase despite the political uncertainty that as taken a major toll on hotels," said Ikwaye.
Lamu's tourism was hard hit by terrorism in 2014 when travel advisories were issued by major European source markets.
Tourism stakeholders have expressed concern that numbers will drop significantly this year because of the "wait and see" attitude to political affairs.
Last week, two Al-Shabaab terrorists were killed in battles with military troops in Lamu West.
