More than half a dozen leading International hotels have confirmed plans to set up their operations in Kenya, as one of the key outcomes in the on-going Africa Hotel and Investment Forum (AHIF) conference.

The two-day conference hosted by the Kenya Tourist Development Corporation (KTDC) appears to have struck the right chord, with Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka confirming that six international brands are now all set to roll out local operations.

Speaking at the opening session of the two-day conference at the Nairobi Intercontinental Hotel, Kalonzo accompanied by KTDC CEO Marianne Ndegwa confirmed that leading brands such as Best Western, Radisson Blu, Park Inn, Three Cities, Kempinski and Lansmore branded hotels are finalising their local market entry.

“We are delighted to have a number of international hotels setting base in Nairobi and across the country,” Kalonzo explained adding that: “In addition, there have been investments in non-traditional accommodation facilities such as villas, homestays, eco-lodges and Golf Resorts around the country. All these will contribute immensely in closing the gaps in the demand for accommodation as tourism volumes to the country grow.”

On her part, KTDC CEO Marianne Ndegwa welcomed potential foreign investors wishing to invest in Kenya’s hospitality sector. Potential foreign investors, Ms Ndegwa explained can take full advantage of available opportunities through direct investment, joint ventures with Kenyan entrepreneurs or public/private sector partnerships.

“KTDC is actively playing its role to facilitate the development of an additional three thousand beds within the medium term plan, 2008 - 2012, in order to meet the growing demand for the Kenyan Tourism product, and a further development of 65,000 beds by 2030,” Ms Ndegwa said.

 AHIF, is the premier hotel investment conference in Africa, attracting many prominent international hotel owners, investors, financiers, management companies and their advisers.  The conference is also receiving support from the Kenyan government by way of sponsorship from the Kenya Tourist Development Corporation (KTDC) and the presence of the tourism minister Hon. Danson Mwazo MP.

 AHIF moves to a different African city every year showcasing high-growth destinations across the continent.  Last year the conference was held in Morocco, attracting more than 350 delegates from 34 countries.