The government has moved to tame the rising cases of femicide witnessed in the country by issuing an order directing all short-term stay rentals to register with the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA).
In a statement issued by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and his Tourism counterpart John Oltuua, it was revealed that the registration process is designed to ensure that all accommodation spaces meet the highest standards of safety and security for guests.
"Starting from 5th February 2024, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOS), in collaboration with the TRA, will commence stringent inspections of all registered properties," read the statement in part.
"We will subsequently coordinate with booking platforms to restrict unregistered rentals and further institute severe penalties, including fines and revocation in cases of non-compliance."
Following the directive, security guards will be required to record the identification details of all individuals entering these premises and temporarily retain them.
They will also be mandated to document the visitors' entry and exit times.
"These measures mandate the installation of CCTV surveillance systems, ensuring that the recording of footage remains consistently up-to-date," the Interior PS stated.
According to the PS, resident associations are encouraged to work closely with law enforcement agencies for effective policing through sharing information, joint inspections, and coordinated responses to any safety standard violations.
Stakeholders in the short-term rental sector were further urged to adhere to the new regulations, bearing in mind the legal and moral responsibility they have in ensuring a safe environment for all individuals.
The ministry also called for increased public awareness and action by different players including; the government, community, individuals and international actors to help address the surging cases of violence against women.
"The Director of Criminal Investigations has formed a dedicated team to tackle cases of femicide, and with rigorous enforcement, our goal is to foster a safer space for everyone," read the statement by PS Omollo in part.
On January 27, activists and women protested the rising murder cases in the country and urged the government to regulate the accommodation sector, fast-track the cases and heighten security.
