The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a set of 17 “Global Goals” with 169 targets among them.
Spearheaded by the United Nations through a deliberative process involving its 193 Member States, as well as global civil society, the goals are contained in paragraph 54 United Nations Resolution A/RES/70/1 of 25 September 2015.
Its main goals are to end poverty, hunger and improve health and education. For that to be achieved, numerous tools as initiatives have been identified by experts that include sustainable tourism.
In Kenya particularly, after the promulgation of the Constitution 2010, most functions of the national government were devolved to the County as prescribed in chapter eleven Articles 185, 186 and 187.
Thus, as the County celebrates World Tourism Day, it’s important to relate to the spirit of the constitution.
Nakuru County is a tourist attraction centre, hence much can be done to improve cultural activities, public entertainment and protection of public amenities so as to safeguard incomes and jobs to the locals through sustainable tourism.
Sustainable Tourism, therefore, is of primary importance to our County and its future. Even the UN has dedicated the year 2017 the International Year of Sustainable Tourism. Sustainability is no longer just a trend, it is a lifestyle.
There is a need for awareness as responsible tourism is a new challenge. For instance, to travel in a responsible way promotes the local culture and natural environment, and at the same time gives us unique, different experiences.
We all think about doing something different when the holidays are coming. We search splendid landscapes and corners of nature in the County to access without difficulty without a vehicle. Nakuru leadership can use its diverse knowledge to work in sustainable tourism all around the County by;
- Protection of natural areas like Menengai Crater among others.
- Preservation of cultural heritage like Chura caves in Nessuit.
- The improved well-being of Nakuru citizens – As sustainable tourism catches on, Nakuru will have access to more jobs and careers, higher earning potential, cross-cultural interaction, and new skills and training.
- Support for the entrepreneurial groups sweeping the county
In conclusion, as we celebrate the World Tourism Day 2017, let’s note that a successful tourism industry will reduce dependence upon government while empowering Nakuru residents.
The writer, Mtumishi Cheruiyot is the Secretary General of the Jubilee Party in Nakuru County.
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