From the blog

KENYA: Mixed Reaction Greets Naomi Campbell’s Tourism Ambassadorial Appointment

The Kenya Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has announced the appointment of supermodel Naomi Campbell as magical Kenya International Ambassador tasked with promoting the marketing of Kenya as an ideal tourism and travel destination to the world.

“We welcome the exciting news that Naomi Campbell will advocate for tourism and travel internationally for the magical Kenya brand,” Najib Balala, the Cabinet Secretary of the ministry said in the statement.

Speaking her appointment, Campbell, 50 commended the government for the improvement of infrastructure at the Coast including the upgrading of Malindi Airport to international standards.

Campbell’s may have been an exciting news to Balala as shared on Twitter, however, Kenyans on the social media platform seem less excited by the news going by reactions to the minister’s post.

Most wondered why international celebrity of Kenyan origin like actress Lupita Nyong’o or comedian Elsa Majimbo.

“Why did we not pick our own Lupita Nyong’o buy Kenya build Kenya promoting our own,” Victor Amalemba tweteed.

“Why didn’t Ajuma Nasenyana not get the position and she is Kenyan, why didn’t Lupita not get the offer and she is Kenyan, why didn’t Debra Sanaipei not get the position and she is Kenyan. what was the criteria for selection? Non Kenyan?” Syombua Kibue tweeted.

“Please stop with this Elsa instead of NaomiCampbell debate. Wealthy people may laugh at your jokes, but on buying/spending decisions, perceived influencer authenticity and inaccessibility is what keeps luxury, luxury,” Kathambi Kaaris tweeted.

Responding to the backlash, Balala in another tweet said Ms Campbell’s appointment to promote Kenyan tourism abroad is meant to strengthen the domestic market and not take away anything from it.

“Naomi Campbell will be Magical Kenya’s International Tourism Ambassador. That doesn’t take away from our domestic market, it only strengthens it. #MagicalKenya,” twitted Balala.