Published on
January 7, 2026
Hotel and tourism industry players along the Kenyan coast of the Indian Ocean have shown positive sentiments and backing for a state-backed control and elimination program of the bird species. It is a move that comes at a critical time and is necessary to ensure the preservation of the local ecosystems and infrastructure to create a positive tourism experience on a coast that is highly attractive to tourists and largely depends on such beauty. It is a part of the Kenyan coast that has a Swahili history and cultures that are attractive to tourists.
The Impact on Tourism: Hygiene and Infrastructure Concerns
Fatuma Mwangi, general manager of a prominent hotel in Diani Beach, emphasized the impact of invasive birds on tourism, noting that tourists frequently complained about bird droppings on outdoor dining areas, walkways, and landscaping. “It affects our image, hygiene, and the overall tourist experience,” she said. The presence of these birds, particularly in popular tourist areas, has led to visible and unpleasant damage to hotel properties, such as stained facades, eroded outdoor furnishings, and blocked drainage systems due to the accumulation of bird droppings. This issue, if left unchecked, could have a long-term negative effect on the tourism sector, which is a key contributor to Kenya’s coastal economy.
Additionally, the noise caused by large flocks of birds gathering near dining spaces, pools, and gardens creates a disruptive environment for guests, further detracting from the peaceful experience that many tourists seek when visiting coastal destinations. The combination of noise, unsightly droppings, and potential damage to property creates a less-than-ideal atmosphere for travelers and a challenging environment for local hoteliers striving to maintain a high-quality experience.
Protecting the Ecosystem and Promoting Sustainable Tourism
Beyond the practical concerns of infrastructure and guest satisfaction, the invasive bird population also poses a threat to local ecosystems. Conservationists have expressed concerns that these non-native species are disrupting the natural habitat of indigenous wildlife, including seabirds and turtles, which are crucial to the region’s biodiversity. Dr. Wairimu Kioko, a lecturer in environmental science, noted that invasive birds can upset the balance of food webs, leading to declines in species that tourists come to see and disrupting the natural habitats that make the Kenyan coast unique. She also emphasized that habitat restoration, such as replanting indigenous flora, must go hand-in-hand with the bird eradication efforts to ensure long-term ecological resilience.
This initiative, while focused on controlling bird populations, will also support broader environmental goals, including the preservation of biodiversity, protection of native wildlife, and restoration of damaged ecosystems. Efforts to restore natural habitats are expected to attract tourists seeking to experience unspoiled, healthy ecosystems—an increasingly important factor in the global travel market where sustainable and eco-conscious tourism is on the rise.
The Role of Hoteliers and Local Communities
The hospitality industry has not only voiced its support for the initiative but also pledged to actively participate in the campaign. Several resort associations and hotel operators have committed to funding awareness campaigns and supporting local efforts to clean up and reduce bird attractants, such as unsecured food waste and unmanaged gardens. The collaboration between the tourism sector, local governments, and community groups is seen as essential for the success of the project, as hoteliers work to make their properties more inviting and cleaner for guests.
Kilifi County Environment Executive Abdul Rashid described the initiative as a “win-win for the environment and economy,” recognizing that pristine natural spaces and a balanced ecosystem are key factors in attracting high-spending tourists who tend to stay longer. The improvements to the region’s natural environment will not only enhance the overall tourism experience but also contribute to the competitiveness of the Kenyan coast in the face of other regional destinations like Zanzibar, Seychelles, and Mauritius, which are also focusing on environmental sustainability.
Economic Benefits: Small Vendors and Local Businesses Support the Initiative
Small-scale vendors, boat operators, and tour guides have also backed the campaign, recognizing the long-term economic benefits of a cleaner, more balanced ecosystem. They believe that improvements to the local environment will enhance the branding of the region and make it more attractive to international visitors, thus boosting their business prospects. With Kenya’s tourism industry already a significant contributor to the country’s economy, the campaign is expected to have positive ripple effects across various sectors, from hospitality and retail to transportation and local attractions.
Challenges and Long-Term Sustainability
Despite widespread support for the eradication initiative, experts warn that controlling invasive bird populations is not a one-time fix. This campaign requires ongoing monitoring, scientific evaluation, and public participation to prevent the birds from returning. Additionally, the eradication efforts must be aligned with Kenya’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, which protects certain bird species and their habitats. Authorities have assured the public that all actions will be environmentally sensitive and compliant with the law, ensuring that indigenous species and habitats remain protected.
Environmental impact assessments are also being carried out to evaluate the long-term effects of the bird control efforts, ensuring that unintended consequences—such as disrupting the local food chain or encouraging the rise of other pests—are minimized. Long-term commitment to monitoring and adapting the strategy as necessary will be crucial to the success of the program.
The Way Forward: A Model for Other Regions
If successful, Kenya’s initiative to control invasive birds could serve as a model for other regions where biodiversity, hospitality, and urban development intersect. In a world where tourism and environmental concerns are increasingly intertwined, this approach could help balance the need for economic growth with the imperative of environmental stewardship. By improving the guest experience, enhancing the natural beauty of the region, and promoting sustainable tourism, Kenya is setting an example of how targeted, collaborative efforts can drive positive change.
Enhancing the Kenyan Coastal Experience
The eradication of invasive birds along Kenya’s coast is a positive step toward enhancing the overall tourism experience in one of the country’s most beloved regions. In this light, this campaign commits to creating a cleaner and more attractive destination for international visitors through the strong cooperation of hoteliers, the local community, and environmentalists. By ensuring the health of the local ecosystems, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the overall guest experience, Kenya’s coastal tourism sector will thrive in the coming years, offering travelers a more balanced and sustainable destination.
