Placing Kenya on the 'red list' is devastating for locals, and defies logic
Disappointing, frustrating, and deeply worrying, the ripple effects will damage tourism, conservation efforts and diplomatic relations
5 April 2021 • 12:30pm
'This is a catastrophe for tourism': the UK's decision to place Kenya on its 'red list' could cause long-term damage
Credit: Getty
Relations between Kenya and the UK historically run deep. From trade to tourism, military defence partnerships and even co-operation with trials of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine, strong ties have bound an enduring friendship over the decades. Attracting thousands of British travellers every year, the East African nation is considered the birthplace of safari – the Swahili word for ‘journey’. The countries share a colourful and connected past, but in a matter of moments those links have been severed following a rash, haphazard and somewhat surprising decision by Britain to 'red list' its closest African ally from April 9. The announcement has sparked both anger and concern.