Coastal residents and visitors assured of festive season security.

Holidaymakers, tourists and residents of the coastal region have been assured of enhanced security during the festive season, as the government and local stakeholders intensify efforts to safeguard Kenya’s coastal tourism industry, one of the country’s most important economic pillars.

The assurance was issued during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Progressive Welfare Association of Malindi (PWAM), held at the Diamond Hotel in Malindi town, Kilifi County. The meeting brought together security agencies, business leaders, hoteliers and community representatives to discuss safety, investment and sustainability in Malindi and the wider coastal region.

Addressing the gathering, Tourist Police Unit (TPU) Coast Region Commander Patricia Boure, accompanied by Malindi Sub-County TPU Commander Vicky Odhiambo and Malindi Police Station Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Joseph Ng’etich, said police patrols had been significantly increased in response to the rising number of visitors arriving at the coast for the holiday season.

Ms Boure noted that the Kenyan coast remains a major magnet for both domestic and international tourists due to its pristine beaches, marine parks, historical sites, cultural diversity and hospitality facilities. Popular destinations such as Malindi, Watamu, Diani and Lamu continue to draw thousands of visitors, making security a top priority for authorities.

“We have deployed adequate officers in all strategic areas that tourists frequently visit, including beaches, hotels, entertainment spots and major transport corridors. We are also monitoring the situation closely and will adjust deployments depending on emerging needs. In the event of any incident, our officers are well prepared to respond swiftly,” she said.

She added that security operations along the coast are being carried out through close collaboration among multiple agencies, including the regular police, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and other specialized units. Community organizations such as PWAM, she said, play a critical role in intelligence sharing and crime prevention.

“The security situation in the coast region is robust. Our partnerships with other security departments and community groups have strengthened our ability to maintain peace and stability,” Ms Boure noted.

She further urged tourism operators, hotel managers and tour companies to coordinate with security agencies whenever police escorts are required, especially during excursions, large events or peak travel times. She emphasized that such coordination helps ensure visitor safety and the smooth flow of traffic in busy areas.

“Whenever escorts are needed, please organize with us. Our aim is to ensure safety, prevent congestion and provide visitors with a seamless and enjoyable experience while in Malindi and the entire coast,” she added.

Ms Boure also expressed gratitude to PWAM for donating four motorbikes to the Malindi police. She said the motorbikes have greatly enhanced police patrols, particularly in areas that are difficult to access using vehicles, such as narrow streets, beach fronts and informal settlements.

“These motorbikes have improved our mobility and visibility on the ground, enabling officers to respond quickly and effectively. They have also played a key role in cracking down on criminal elements that previously terrorized parts of Malindi,” she said.

PWAM, whose membership is largely drawn from the Malindi business and tourism community, has been actively involved in promoting security, environmental conservation and community development. The association runs a monthly beach clean-up program that has contributed to environmental sustainability and improved the town’s appeal to tourists. These efforts have earned Malindi recognition as a clean, safe and environmentally conscious destination.

Malindi Sub-County TPU Commander Vicky Odhiambo lauded PWAM and the wider Malindi community for embracing community policing and working hand in hand with security agencies. She described the partnership as a model for people-oriented and people-friendly policing.

“I am very grateful to PWAM and its chairlady Cate Mwikali for the warm reception and support. It is encouraging to see the community taking ownership of security in their neighborhoods. This is your town—do not allow a few individuals to destroy what has taken years and significant resources to build,” Ms Odhiambo said.

On his part, Malindi OCS Joseph Ng’etich highlighted the logistical challenges facing the police in the sub-county, revealing that only one police vehicle serves five police stations. He said the motorbike donation by PWAM had come at a critical time, helping to bridge mobility gaps and enhance police operations.

“Security is at the forefront of ensuring that Malindi remains safe, clean and attractive to visitors. Our collaboration with PWAM, which is one of the biggest stakeholders in Malindi’s security, has made a huge difference. Much of what we have achieved so far is due to their support,” Ng’etich said.

He added that despite limited resources, partnerships with community organizations and the private sector have enabled the police to maintain law and order, especially during peak tourism periods such as the festive season.

As tourism continues to drive economic growth along the Kenyan coast—supporting thousands of jobs in hospitality, transport, trade and conservation—security agencies and stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting visitors, residents and investments. They expressed confidence that with sustained collaboration, Malindi and the wider coastal region will remain safe, vibrant and attractive destinations for holidaymakers during the festive season and beyond.