Diamond Malindi Resort, file
A tourism resort in Malindi has conducted a comprehensive security and emergency preparedness drill as part of proactive measures to enhance safety at its hotels ahead of the New Year holiday season.
The drill, organised by Diamonds Malindi, tested the hotel’s readiness to respond to various high-risk scenarios including violent crime, a terrorist attack, fire outbreaks, and bomb threats. It also simulated rescue operations, evacuation procedures, and emergency response to a drowning incident at the hotel’s swimming pool.
The exercise comes at a time when thousands of local and international holidaymakers are flocking to Kenya’s coastal beaches for end-year festivities, prompting hotel operators to heighten security and safety measures.
Diamonds Malindi, which comprises Tropical Village, Malindi Dream Gardens, and Dream of Africa, is the latest tourist destination along the coast to carry out a full-scale emergency drill aimed at curbing crime and enhancing guest safety.
The drill was led by Major Incident Trainer Charles Otieno and brought together hotel staff, the National Police Service, officials from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the County Government of Kilifi, Malindi Municipality, and the Progress Welfare Association of Malindi.
The multi-agency approach focused on equipping participants with practical skills and coordination techniques for effective emergency response.
Speaking after the exercise, Diamonds Malindi General Manager Jorge Ducoing expressed confidence in the hotel’s emergency preparedness, noting that regular drills are critical in ensuring the safety of guests and staff.
The hotel’s management further challenged other hospitality establishments along the coast and across the country to emulate the initiative, stressing that preparedness and collaboration with security agencies are key to safeguarding Kenya’s tourism sector.
Kenya’s coast remains a top holiday destination, and industry players say proactive security measures are essential to maintaining visitor confidence during peak travel seasons.