Tourist Police Unit calls for modernisation to tackle security threats
By Faith Lagat, July 22, 2025The Tourist Police Unit (TPU) has called for urgent modernisation to better respond to emerging security challenges in Kenya’s tourism sector.
During the meeting, TPU officers emphasised the need for capacity building, advanced training, and modern equipment to effectively address these challenges.
The officers noted that modernisation would not only improve response times but also enhance preventive measures to ensure the safety of tourists. Areas highlighted for improvement include surveillance systems, cybercrime prevention techniques, and better coordination with regional and international security agencies.
This came to light on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, when the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Tourism, John Ololtuaa, visited the TPU Headquarters in Nairobi.
He noted the ministry’s steadfast support for the service’s ongoing modernisation program by implementing the TPU’s action plan and strategies to enhance safety and security, thereby boosting confidence among visitors, investors, and stakeholders in the tourism industry.
“I want to assure you of the ministry’s steadfast support for the service’s ongoing modernisation program by implementing the TPU’s action plan and strategies to enhance safety and security, thereby boosting confidence among visitors, investors, and stakeholders in the tourism industry,” he noted.
He was accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, Culture, and Heritage, where they held discussions with TPU leadership on strengthening security measures.
The visit, hosted by TPU Commandant Lydia Ligami, marked a key step in aligning security operations with the evolving needs of Kenya’s tourism landscape. It also provided an opportunity for the Ministry and the TPU to assess gaps in resources and chart a way forward for safer tourism experiences in the country.
Safety and tourism growth
Tourism remains one of Kenya’s leading economic pillars, contributing over 10 percent to the GDP, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2024 report.
However, the sector faces growing security concerns, particularly in high-traffic tourist areas such as coastal towns, game parks, and urban centers. Incidents of harassment, petty crime, and emerging threats such as online travel scams have raised alarms within the industry.
Ololtuaa assured the TPU of the government’s commitment to supporting these efforts. He pointed out that an efficient and well-equipped TPU is crucial for boosting the confidence of tourists, investors, and stakeholders.
The PS stressed that securing Kenya’s tourism sector is not just about law enforcement but about sustaining long-term economic growth. He cited global data showing that improved tourism security can increase visitor numbers and revenue by up to 15 percent annually.
Collaborative approach
Commandant Lydia Ligami, drawing from her experience in the International Crimes Unit, expressed gratitude for the ministry’s ongoing support. She acknowledged the importance of continued capacity-building programs, including the training of officers in investigative skills and logistical support, as critical components of the modernisation push.
As Kenya positions itself as a top destination in East Africa, the TPU’s modernisation agenda is expected to set new standards for tourism security in the region.