Tourism Biju John | May 02, 2026

Former Kenya Minister, Najib Balala, Appointed to Lead Advocacy and Government Engagement at the World Travel and Tourism Council

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has appointed Hon. Najib Balala, Kenya’s long-serving former Cabinet Minister for Tourism and Wildlife, as Executive Vice-President for Advocacy, Government Affairs and Research.

Role:
Based in Madrid, Balala will lead WTTC’s global advocacy agenda, government engagement, and policy research.

Experience:
Over 12 years as Kenya’s Tourism & Wildlife Minister, where he shaped national and international tourism policy.

Crisis leadership:
Guided Kenya’s tourism sector through political upheaval and the COVID-19 pandemic, securing the world’s first Safer Tourism Seal.

Diplomacy:
Known for bridging government priorities with private sector ambitions, strengthening Kenya’s global tourism brand.

Reporting line:
He will report directly to WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara.

Statements:
- Balala: “It is an honour and a privilege… I’ll be bringing my experience bridging the private and public sectors to WTTC’s strategic roadmap.”
- Guevara: “Najib Balala’s substantial experience as a Cabinet Minister on the world stage will help WTTC grow our sector even further.”

This appointment signals WTTC’s intent to deepen its influence with governments worldwide, leveraging Balala’s proven track record in tourism diplomacy and crisis management.