Kisumu City Requires AirBnB Operators to Register and Obtain Licenses

Kisumu, Kenya – Kisumu City’s AirBnB operators are now required to register their businesses and secure licenses from the county government, as part of new regulations aimed at enhancing security and managing the hospitality sector. Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga announced the directive, giving operators a 21-day period to comply.

According to Kenya News Agency, the decision to regulate AirBnB operations comes in response to an increase in criminal activities reported within these establishments in Kisumu and other parts of the country. The requirement for registration and licensing applies to all AirBnB operators within the city. The process is intended to gather comprehensive information about the rental properties, including their location, capacity, amenities, and security measures to ensure the safety of visitors.

Wanga emphasized that these steps are being taken to safeguard Kisumu’s vibrant hospitality industry. The county government’s goal is to enhance Kisumu City’s reputation as a preferred destination. He referenced a disturbing incident in December where a group of young girls were lured into an Airbnb party in the city, subsequently facing sexual abuse after consuming alcohol and drugs.

“It is disheartening to realize that Airbnb, originally designed for family vacations and accommodation similar to hotels, is being exploited for criminal activities, including sexual orgies and parties that particularly endanger young girls, especially those in colleges and universities,” Wanga stated.

The new directives are formulated to protect the rights and interests of guests within the Airbnb ecosystem. Wanga warned that operators who fail to comply with these regulations face potential legal action and the closure of their establishments. This move represents a significant step in regulating the short-term rental market in Kisumu, aligning with broader efforts to maintain public safety and order in the hospitality sector.