Kilifi Department of Trade, Tourism & Co-operative Development

26/07/2024

Kilifi Department of Trade, Tourism & Cooperative Development Service Charter in Swahili

26/07/2024

Kilifi Department of Trade, Tourism & Cooperative Development Service Charter in English

18/07/2024

12/07/2024

Kilifi

06/07/2024

It was a beautiful day at Mapimo Vocational Training today as the world celebrated Cooperative Day. The registration of cooperative societies in Kilifi County is rapidly increasing, with a total of 383 societies already registered. Of these, 43 were registered in the recently concluded financial year of 2023-2024.

The county government is expediting the process of approving the Kilifi County Cooperative Bill, which aims to strengthen good governance and create a conducive environment for cooperative societies to thrive even more.

Celebrations included entertainment from local cultural dancers, songs from Mapimo vocational students, and competitive races between the cooperative societies present.

H.E. Gideon Maitha Mung'aro, the chief guest, celebrated this beautiful day and urged bodaboda operators to join Saccos in large numbers so that the monthly license fee of 300 shillings, which is currently waived, can be saved for them.

In attendance were also; Hon. Clara Chonga, CECM for Trade, Tourism Promotion and Cooperative Development, Hon. Raymond Ngala, CECM for Finance, Economic Planning and Resource Mobilization, Hon. Catherine Kenga, CECM for Roads, Transport and Public Works and Chief Officers from different departments of the County Government among trade officers and representatives from different Saccos in the County.

Kilifi County Government

05/07/2024

On 5th July 2024, the CECM for Trade, Tourism and Cooperative Development, Hon. Clara Chonga, accompanied by the Chief for Cooperative Development, George Mwangiri and the Deputy Director, Mary Mkare paid a courtesy visit to the Krystalline Salt Limited in Gongoni, Kilifi County. The visit aimed to enhance the relationship between the county government and Kaysalt, and to discuss Krystaline's participation in the upcoming Investment Conference.

The delegation was warmly welcomed. The manager shared insights about the company, highlighting the challenges faced, particularly the impact of climate change on salt harvesting. The visit included an orientation to different sectors of the company and a detailed overview of the salt extraction processes.

Krystalline Salt Limited is the 3rd largest exporter in Kenya (exporting 80% of their produce and leaving 20% for local consumption which rose from 10% over the years.) They boast of having the largest solar power supply in Kilifi County, providing them with 25% of their energy supply. This impressive sustainability effort makes Krystaline a benchmark for many firms. Additionally, Krystaline is actively involved in various CSR projects, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the community.

The firm is also close to achieving self-sustainability, operating its own farm that grows a wide range of produce, including vegetables, fruits, and herbs, with the exception of rice and potatoes. The comprehensive tour of the facility provided valuable insights into Krystaline's operations and their innovative approaches to sustainability and community engagement.

This visit not only reinforced the partnership between Kilifi County and Krystaline but also showcased the company’s exemplary practices that can serve as a model for other firms.

Kilifi County Government
Premium

05/07/2024

Join us tomorrow as Kilifi County Cooperative fraternity joins the rest of the world in marking the 102nd International Day of Cooperatives .

This occasion is made more significant by the launch of Bodaboda Cooperatives ,which marks a new chapter in the development of our cooperative sector.

Kilifi County Government

22/06/2024

Today, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Tourism Promotion, and Cooperative Development, Hon. Clara Chonga, along with the CECM for Lands, Housing, and Physical Planning, Hon. Jane Kamto, and the Chief Officer for Lands, Energy, and Physical Planning, Samuel Menza, attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Royal Tulia Gardens—a distinctive apartment development by Capital Compass Group. This is a group of Kenyans living in the Diaspora who have selected Kilifi, the Kenyan Riviera, as their retirement and vacation destination.

This project site is strategically situated 5km from Malindi International Airport along Suli Suli Road, adjacent to the Milele Resort.

The Royal Tulia Gardens apartment project aims to create employment opportunities during construction and ongoing management, enhance roads and utilities, drive tourism by attracting visitors, support local businesses, and establish a landmark that elevates the area’s reputation, thus improving the overall quality of life for the residents of Malindi Sub-county and Kilifi County.

The groundbreaking ceremony was commemorated with great enthusiasm. Investors, prospective residents, and students from Sabaki High Vision Academy and Junior Secondary were in attendance to witness the commencement of this transformative project. The students delighted guests with songs, a skit, and dances, bringing a lively atmosphere to the event. Dignitaries, the project’s chairman, and his team participated in placing the first bricks of this remarkable project, officially inaugurating the groundbreaking. This act symbolized progress, growth, and shared aspirations, signifying not only the beginning of construction but also the promise of a brighter future for Malindi.

The Royal Tulia Gardens is not only about apartments; it is about cultivating a thriving community, fostering growth, and embracing the appeal of coastal living. Whether you are seeking a peaceful residence or a sound investment, this development guarantees both.

Kilifi County Government
Kilifi Dept of Lands, Energy, Housing, Physical Planning & Urban Devt
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
Council of Governors-Kenya
Compass Group

21/06/2024

Today, The Honorable Clara Chonga, County Executive Committee Member for Tourism Promotion, was joined by Assistant Director for Tourism Mary Kabani and Tourism Officer Adrian Baya to commemorate this special day dedicated to our beloved giraffes, the iconic tall giants of the animal kingdom.

The event included a panel discussion with representatives from Vipingo Ridge, Kenya Wildlife Services, and other key stakeholders, focusing on the critical importance of wildlife conservation. With giraffes facing the threat of being classified as a vulnerable species, it is imperative to remember the significant decline in their natural habitat, once sprawling Savannah woodlands now reduced to only a fraction of their original size.

The Honorable Clara Chonga stressed the necessity of educating and empowering the younger generation to become champions for environmental and wildlife conservation. She proposed providing free entry to wildlife parks for students in order to cultivate awareness and commitment to preserving our valuable fauna.

We were privileged to have officials from the Wildlife Research Training Institute and enthusiastic students from Takaungu Secondary School in attendance at this enlightening and motivational event.

Let us unite in our efforts to safeguard our wildlife and ensure a promising future for these remarkable creatures!

Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
Vipingo Ridge
Kenya Wildlife Service

21/06/2024

Happy World Giraffe Day!🦒
Today we celebrate the magnificent giraffe, the world's tallest animal and a symbol of grace and beauty in the wild. These gentle giants are a vital part of our ecosystem, yet they face numerous threats, including habitat loss and poaching.

Did you know that giraffes can reach up to 18 feet high, making them the tallest animals on earth? They have long necks that allow them to reach leaves on tall trees and use as a weapon for fighting. Additionally, they take short naps of about 5 to 30 minutes per day and communicate in a low pitch.

Every year, on the 21st of June, we observe World Giraffe Day, an exciting annual event initiated by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF). This day aims to create awareness and shed light on the challenges giraffes face in the wild, such as habitat loss, poaching, and disease. By celebrating this day, we highlight the need for conservation efforts to protect their small population, which is about 29,000 in Kenya making 30% of the total population in Africa.

World Giraffe Day provides an opportunity to educate people about giraffes' unique features, behaviors, and ecological roles. For instance, giraffes play an important role in seed dispersal across vast landscapes.

Vipingo Ridge has taken commendable steps to conserve and protect giraffes by rescuing some from Samburu that faced challenges due to climate change. Now, Vipingo Ridge is home to three giraffes: Valentine, Kampoe, and Chaa.

Let's work together to protect our wildlife and ensure a brighter future for these incredible animals.

Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
MagicalKenya
Vipingo Ridge

12/06/2024

The Department of Trade, Tourism, and Cooperatives, in collaboration with the USAID CLEAR+ Program, recently organized a transformative two-day sensitization forum for county assembly members of the Trade, Tourism, and Cooperatives committee.

This significant event centered on the County Cooperative Policy and the Cooperatives Bill 2024.

Hon Clara Chonga, County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Tourism Promotion, and Cooperative Development, underscored the necessity of a strong legal framework to address the challenges facing Kilifi's cooperative sector. Emphasizing the sector's pivotal role in the socio-economic well-being of Kilifi residents, Hon Clara urged committee members to expedite the bill's enactment into law.

Several key officials, including Chief Officer George Mwangiri, Deputy Director Mary Mukare, Director James Mwasi, Honorable Shehe, chairman of the trade committee, the Deputy Clerk, and Olga Oyier from the USAID CLEAR+ Project, were present at the event. Ms. Oyier conveyed her gratitude for the progress achieved and pledged unwavering support for the department's initiatives.

Together, we are endeavoring to create a prosperous future for Kilifi's cooperative sector!

Kilifi County Government
CLEAR +

.

05/06/2024

Today, a meeting was convened at the Jumuiya ya Kaunti Za Pwani offices on Nyali Bustani Close to engage in a Lessons Learned Exercise for the GO BLUE Tourism and Cultural Heritage (TCH) Value Chains Interventions. The meeting was attended by various key stakeholders, including the CECM for Tourism for Tana River County, Hon. Yahya Ali, the Assistant Director for Tourism Kilifi County, Mary Kabani, the Director for Tourism Mombasa County, Lawrence Mukoyani, and the Director for Culture and Tourism Taita Taveta, Wallace Mwaluma.

During the meeting, discussions were held on strategies to consistently promote tourism in the coastal region, with a specific focus on heritage sites and the diverse cultures that require preservation. Suggestions included the restoration and conservation of Fort Jesus, the promotion and preservation of Swahili culture possibly through the establishment of a cultural center, and the creation of a tourism information center along the highway.

Furthermore, proposals were made to attract investors for the installation of zip lining and cable cars in the Taita Hills to expand tourism offerings. The development of an underwater museum and the production of a documentary for Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani were also deliberated. The importance of effective marketing, particularly for Tana River County, was emphasized to counter the perception that Tana River is distant and unsafe.

These discussions demonstrate a shared dedication to enhancing and diversifying tourism opportunities in the coastal region, ensuring that both heritage and contemporary attractions are effectively promoted and safeguarded.

Kilifi County Government
JUMUIYA YA KAUNTI ZA PWANI
TANA RIVER COUNTY RELOADED
Department of Tourism, Culture and Trade -Mombasa County.

05/06/2024

Day two of the Health E-Quality Program in Kenya, participants were provided with extensive information on the operations of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

Cooperatives and SACCO officials underwent specialized training geared towards mobilizing their members to participate in the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) program. This initiative is particularly crucial for the informal sector where coverage is low in light of the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to SHIF. This shift represents a significant step towards establishing a more comprehensive healthcare system that addresses basic medical requirements and offers a diverse array of healthcare services in various fields.

While the NHIF primarily caters to employees in the formal sector and some informal sector workers, SHIF aims to encompass all Kenyan citizens, including individuals in the informal sector, those who are formally unemployed, and vulnerable populations. Through adequate training, cooperative officials are anticipated to serve as champions in encouraging their members to enroll in SHIF programs.

The event was graced by the presence of Chief Officer for Cooperative Development, George Mwangiri, Mary Mkare, the Deputy Director for Cooperative Development, as well as other personnel from the Department of Cooperative Development, health officials from the County, the National Government, and NHIF, Health Partners representatives, and attendees from various cooperatives in Kilifi County

Kilifi County Government
Kilifi Department of Gender, Culture and Social Services Kilifi Department of Devolution, Civic Education and Public Participation
National Health Insurance Fund

04/06/2024

With the support of USAID and Health Partners, the Health E-Quality Kenya program has initiated a transformative three-day training session for Cooperative and NHIF officials. This essential initiative aims to equip officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to educate and assist local communities in accessing the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

Aside from SHIF training, officials are being educated on how to empower the informal sector to join cooperatives and take advantage of SHIF benefits. Cooperative officials are also receiving training on providing healthcare funding and insurance for their clients, particularly those in the informal sector.

This training is crucial in ensuring that the local residents of Kilifi County can easily access healthcare services. Following the completion of this session, health officers and cooperative officials will be better equipped to provide accurate and timely information about SHIF, ultimately leading to improved understanding and access for the community.

Together, we are making significant progress towards a healthier and more well-informed Kenya.

Kilifi County Government
Kilifi Department of Gender, Culture and Social Services
Kilifi Department of Devolution, Civic Education and Public Participation
USAID Kenya
National Health Insurance Fund

04/06/2024

The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Tourism Promotion and Cooperative Development, Hon. Clara Chonga, in conjunction with the CECM for Gender, Hon. Dr. Ruth Dama, and the CECM for Devolution, Hon. Yaye Shosi, participated in a Senior County Stakeholder Engagement meeting organized by USAID at the Kilifi Convection Center (KCC).

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Health E-Quality Kenya Program funded by USAID and Health Partners. Deputy Chief of Party Rosemary Mbaluka provided an overview of the program, which aims to enhance the performance of cooperative businesses, improve the regulatory environment, and facilitate collaboration and learning to support better health and well-being outcomes for all.

Scheduled to commence in October 2023 and conclude in September 2028, the program has received funding of $8,000,000 USD from USAID. Its main goal is to leverage the influence of cooperative entities to enhance healthcare accessibility for the informal sector and establish an inclusive healthcare system that promotes improved health outcomes. The meeting involved discussions with county officials on strategies to ensure the successful implementation of the program and maximize its benefits for the informal sector and cooperatives in Kilifi County.

Key attendees included Chief Officer for Cooperative Development George Mwangiri, Chief Officer for Health Dr. David Mulewa, USAID Project Coordinator Holthaus Cianna, Deputy Director for Cooperative Development Mary Mkare, Director of Public Health Catherine Munywoki, Director of Gender, Social Services and Inclusivity Mwangome Cyrilus, Social Health Authority Regional Manager Douglas Odhiambo, and representatives from the State Department of Gender, including Georgina Dulu.

Kilifi County Government
Kilifi Department of Devolution, Civic Education and Public Participation
Kilifi Department of Gender, Culture and Social Services
USAID Kenya
National Health Insurance Fund

03/06/2024

CECM for Trade, Tourism Promotion, and Cooperative Development, Hon. Clara Chonga, the CECM for Lands, Housing, and Physical Planning, Hon. Jane Kamto, along with representatives from Mwahera Hydrogen Limited, conducted a formal visit to the office of H.E, Deputy Governor of Kilifi County, Flora Mbetsa Chibule.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the innovative Mwangea Hydrogen Project.

During the meeting, the Deputy Governor enthusiastically acknowledged the potential benefits that the Mwangea Project could bring to the people and government of Kilifi, and expressed eagerness for the necessary steps to be taken to ensure its successful implementation.

We extend our deepest appreciation to the Mwangea Project for their proactive efforts and collaboration with Kilifi County, which is anticipated to significantly improve the economic prosperity and overall well-being of our residents.

Kilifi County Government
Kilifi Dept of Lands, Energy, Housing, Physical Planning & Urban Devt

03/06/2024

Today, Hon Clara Chonga, County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Tourism Promotion, and Cooperative Development, together with Director for Trade, Joseph Katana, attended a meeting on Investment in Energy. The esteemed guests, Mwahera Hydrogen Limited, delivered a presentation on their proposed Mwangea Green Ammonia Project. This pioneering initiative aims to produce ammonia primarily for export, with a proportion allocated for local consumption in Kilifi County and throughout Kenya.

The potential advantages of this project for our community and county are significant, encompassing economic advancement, poverty alleviation, carbon credit accrual, skill development, training, and knowledge dissemination, as well as impactful corporate social responsibility initiatives focusing on education, water, health, and infrastructure. Additionally, the project is expected to increase tax revenue and promote a positive trade balance.

Kilifi County is highly enthusiastic about this project, which is currently in its nascent stages. Mwahera Hydrogen Limited is seeking partnership and assistance from the County Government of Kilifi, and we are dedicated to working closely together to ensure its success for the betterment of our local residents and the government.

In attendance at the meeting were The Honorable Jane Kamto, County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Housing, and Physical Planning, Hezekiah Mwaruwa, Chief Officer for Water Services and Natural Resources Management, Samuel Menza, Chief Officer for Lands, Energy, and Physical Planning, among other officials from the county government.

Kilifi County Government
Kilifi Dept of Lands, Energy, Housing, Physical Planning & Urban Devt
Mwangea Green Hydrogen Limited

28/05/2024

The Boda Boda industry offers employment opportunities to a significant number of young individuals in Kilifi County and nationwide. Despite its importance, the sector lacks proper regulation. Governor Gideon Maitha Mung'aro has prioritized the formalization of this sector as a crucial initiative to secure long-term benefits for Boda Boda operators.

In pursuit of this objective, the Governor has advocated for the implementation of a Cooperative business model for Boda Boda operators. Earlier today, a consultative meeting was convened at the department boardroom to discuss the development of a management system for the Boda Boda sector. Chief Officer George Mwangiri, Director Mary Mukare, and Cooperative officers were present at the meeting, collaborating to turn this vision into reality.

Kilifi County Government

28/05/2024

The Governor of Taita Taveta County, along with Honorable Shuve, CECM for Trade and Tourism, and various other key stakeholders, ceremoniously inaugurated the Headquarters of the Domestic Tourism Association in Voi today. Kilifi County was privileged to participate in this noteworthy occasion, with representation from our dedicated tourism officers from the Department of Trade, Tourism Promotion, and Cooperative Development.

This significant achievement serves as a momentous milestone, fostering domestic tourism and contributing to economic growth, job opportunities, and the enrichment of our societal and cultural landscape. Kilifi County takes pride in extending support and celebrating this momentous accomplishment for the betterment of our nation as a whole.

Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
The Taita Taveta County Government

28/05/2024

Kilifi County is pleased to announce its participation in the ceremonial launch of the Domestic Tourism Association Headquarters, a tourist information center located in Voi, Taita Taveta County.

The festivities commenced with captivating traditional and cultural dances, presented by the Nyangala traditional dancers and Voi Mapingani traditional dancers, which highlighted the cultural heritage of Taita Taveta County.

We were honored to be in attendance alongside various stakeholders in the tourism sector to commemorate this momentous occasion. Let us continue to work together in promoting and appreciating the natural beauty and cultural richness of our respective regions.

Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
The Taita Taveta County Government
Domestic Tourism Kenya

26/05/2024

Greetings from POATE. The Uganda Exhibition came to a conclusion yesterday with 3 days of emmense engagement. Kilifi stood tall before those hosted under the Kenya Tourism Board with the largest enquiries and follow-up. This was a clear way that Kilifi was making a high intrusion to the Ugandan market.

The travel and tourism buyers and traders and hosted buyers were so impressed with what our rich county, the Kenyan Riviera offers. Most tours and travel companies reiterated that Watamu and Malindi are now having many enquiries in their bookings and were so happy of our involvement at the Pearl of Africa.

Kilifi was glad to be visited by the Proprietor of Ndere Cultural Centre in Kampala, Mr. Kumar a Dubai hosted buyer who was passionate about Watamu among other many trade visitors. The 3 day Exhbtion was a must attend as realized with this engagement.

Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
Tourism Uganda
MagicalKenya

24/05/2024

Kilifi County Tourism shines bright!
This morning, Kilifi was honored to welcome Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, the Uganda Consulate Mombasa, to the Kilifi County Tourism booth. He was thoroughly impressed by the effort put in to engage the Ugandan tourist market!

The energy at the stand was amazing! Our officers managed to connect with trade partners, travel agents, and fellow exhibitors throughout the day. There was a real sense of engagement, and it's clear that Kilifi is the place to be on the Kenyan Coast!

Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
Tourism Uganda
MagicalKenya

24/05/2024

POATE kicked off yesterday, and the Kilifi County stand is already a hit! Traders who have experienced the magic of Kilifi are eager to connect with the tourism officer representing KCG, William Iha and Adrian Baya. Thanks to the Kenya Coast Tourism conference and FAM Trip. Kilifi is seeing a lot of interest from new faces – everyone wants to learn more about the diverse range of products and services offered in Kilifi County. Among them are Tourism officers from the Bunyore Kingdom!

The word is out: Kilifi, the Kenyan Riviera is a brand on the rise in Kampala, and soon all of Uganda will know our name!

Yesterday was a huge success, and Kilifi was at the forefront, showcasing everything this beautiful county has to offer. Thinking of a trip to Kenya? Look no further than Kilifi, the Kenyan Riviera! ️

Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
Tourism Uganda

24/05/2024

Yesterday I&M Bank conducted a formal visit to the CECM for Trade, Tourism Promotion, and Cooperative Development, Hon. Clara Chonga. The primary focus of the meeting was to explore potential collaboration between the county government and I&M Bank in supporting investors in County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPS).

I&M Bank expressed a keen interest in establishing a partnership with emerging manufacturers in the agribusiness and horticultural farming sectors, specifically targeting crops such as pineapples, mangoes, and cashew nuts that are well-suited to the region of Kilifi. The discussion also emphasized the importance of promoting CAIPS as a Jumuiya ya Kaunti initiative and fostering synergies among businesses to drive mutual prosperity.

The meeting was attended by Joseph Katana, the Director for Trade, along with Relationship Managers Halima Yunis and John Korir representing I&M Bank, as well as Josiah Bwana, the Assistant General Manager at I&M Bank.

Kilifi County Government
I&M Bank Ltd

16/05/2024

On May 15th, 2024, the Kenya Convention Centre hosted a significant event for the Go Blue Kenya Project. Launched in 2021 as part of the Blue Economy Sector Strategy 2030, this initiative is a partnership between the European Union and the Government of Kenya. Its main objective is to enhance the Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani region's reputation as a global hub for tourism and cultural heritage. Since the presentation of the project's Blueprint on October 27th, 2023, substantial progress has been achieved through collaborative governance meetings with county stakeholders, focusing on monitoring and assessing key interventions.

Looking towards 2030, the vision for the Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani region is to become a secure, sustainable, inclusive, and globally recognized destination for tourism and cultural heritage, symbolizing socio-economic prosperity and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage.

The gathering held yesterday offered an opportunity to review advancements, refine strategies, and reaffirm dedication to this vision. The project's primary objectives include gathering comprehensive data for informed decision-making, formulating policies that support sustainable tourism and cultural heritage conservation, developing and maintaining crucial infrastructure to enhance visitor experiences, increasing public awareness of the region's cultural heritage and tourism offerings, and implementing targeted marketing campaigns to promote the region as a top tourism destination. Through ongoing cooperation and commitment, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter, more sustainable future for the Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani region and beyond.

In attendance were Chief Officer for Tourism, Herbert Mwachiro, and Director for Tourism, Mary Kabani.



Kilifi County Government
Council of Governors-Kenya
JUMUIYA YA KAUNTI ZA PWANI