NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan – Kenya Safari Lodges and Hotels (KSLH) today flagged off two new Isuzu buses to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency at Voi Safari Lodge in Tsavo East National Park and Ngulia Safari Lodge in Tsavo West National Park. KSLH is a subsidiary of the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC).
The flag-off ceremony was held at Isuzu East Africa’s Mombasa Road assembly plant and officiated by Administrative Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, Herman Shambi, representing Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano. KSLH board members and senior officials from Isuzu East Africa also attended.
Speaking at the event, Shambi highlighted the importance of continued investment in tourism infrastructure to sustain Kenya’s global competitiveness. He noted that tourism contributes about 10 percent of Kenya’s GDP and supports over two million jobs nationwide.
“Strengthening operational efficiency at key destinations such as Tsavo directly enhances visitor experience and Kenya’s global competitiveness. I encourage all Kenyans to travel extensively across the country, as even simple expeditions make a major impact on local tourism,” Shambi said.
KSLH Board Chairperson and KDC Director General, Norah Ratemo, said the investment forms part of the company’s broader modernization and turnaround agenda, aimed at building a high-performing and sustainable hospitality enterprise.
“Voi and Ngulia Safari Lodges are strategically positioned within Kenya’s safari circuit. Enhancing operational capacity improves guest experience while supporting regional economic activity, conservation awareness, and destination competitiveness,” Ratemo said.
Ag. GM, Ronald Simiyu, said the buses will significantly improve day-to-day operations by enhancing staff mobility and guest transfers within the Tsavo ecosystem.
“By supplying locally assembled buses, we are supporting Kenyan jobs, skills development, and the wider manufacturing value chain, while enabling KSLH to deliver reliable and efficient transport for staff and guests,” said Wanjohi Kangangi, Director of Sales and Marketing, Isuzu East Africa.
The two locally assembled Isuzu NQR 33-seater buses will support the safe and efficient movement of staff and guests across the expansive Tsavo ecosystem, improving operational efficiency while advancing the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya agenda.
The flag-off marks a key milestone in KSLH’s transformation journey, signalling renewed momentum, operational excellence, and confidence in Kenya’s tourism growth trajectory.
