Tourism Regulator Targets Illegal Spa, Wellness Facilities in its New Crackdown

The Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) plans to target unlawful spas and wellness facilities posing as businesses in these sectors.

This comes after the regulator yesterday unveiled the National Spa and Wellness Standard in Nairobi.

The standards will professionalize and enhance the reputation of the sector, which has been tarnished by unqualified suppliers, according to TRA Director General Norbet Talam.

“With the standards and the association being place, we are now in a position as the sector to offer competitive services that are up to the global standards,” Talam said.

“We must all roll out these standards in our facilities across the 47 counties in the country,” he added.

The standard is a thorough collection of standards and guidelines created especially for the Kenyan market.

It will act as a baseline for professionals in the field, giving them a plan to deliver great services while upholding global quality standards.

The Spa and Wellness Association of Kenya (SWAK), a group that would represent the industry, was also established at the event.

“We are thrilled to launch the SPA and Wellness Association of Kenya (SWAK) and embark on this exciting journey of elevating our country’s spa and wellness industry,” SWAJ Chairperson Winnie Taylor said.

“Kenya possesses an abundance of natural beauty and resources that provide the perfect backdrop for unparalleled wellness experiences,” Taylor added.

“SWAK will play a vital role in promoting best practices, fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, and raising awareness about the immense benefits of the spa and wellness sector.”