British supermodel Naomi Campbell was recently named Kenya’s tourism ambassador.
“She will help promote the marketing of Kenya as an ideal tourism and travel destination to the world,” read a statement from Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife. “We welcome the exciting news that Naomi Campbell will advocate for tourism and travel internationally for the Magical Kenya brand.”
But not everyone is on board with the appointment. The announcement has stirred up a bit of controversy, with some taking to social media to voice their displeasure and call for more suitable Kenyan natives to step into the role.
Others were more optimistic.
Like many other countries, the East African nation’s tourism sector has struggled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Visitor numbers plummeted 72% between January and October last year. The selection of the high-profile Campbell is an attempt to give the industry a much-needed boost.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala defended the decision, tweeting, “Naomi Campbell will be Magical Kenya’s International Tourism Ambassador. That doesn’t take away from our domestic market, it only strengthens it. #MagicalKenya.”
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