TERRORISM and general insecurity is a threat to the growth of tourism in Kenya, a hotel body official has said. Anthony Kashero, vice chairman of the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers in Mount Kenya region, said the recent conflicts in Baragoi,Tana river and Nairobi had also greatly affected tourist flow into the regions and called on the government to step up the fight against terrorism and insecurity. Kashero was speaking during new year celebrations at the Sarova Shaba hotel.

He said although the region has great tourism potential, there is need for an aggressive campaign to market Northern tourism circuit that comprises of Samburu and Shaba region.

Kashero, who is also a hotelier at Isiolo Sarova Shaba lodge, said the region's central location and untapped tourism potential gives it an edge over other regions.

He said the Northern tourism circuit is the place to be especially for those who want to sample new African products and diverse culture.