The Amu Island business community has said they are pleased with the i9mproved security on the island.
The businessmen said despite violence witnessed in the county this week in areas of Witu where four people were shot dead by AlShabaab suspects and several injured, the has remained peaceful so should visit to celebrate this New Year.
Sharif Abdi, a businessman who sells shoes at the Amu Island sea front,
said the attacks that occurred in the mainland of Witu several kilometers away from the island, have not affected the prevailing peace of the island, “we welcome visitors. This island is safe and peaceful”, he said.
He said despite the attacks having a great potential to destroy tourism, tourists should not be afraid to visit the island as security is strengthened.
Most of the tourists and Kenyans in general he said have the perception
that when Lamu is attacked, they automatically assume it is the lsland.
“Someone who does not know Lamu when they hear of an attack they
think it is in this island. No, here we are safe and peaceful”, said Abdi.
He has however expressed optimism in the growth of economy come next year.
“Corona virus and the election contributed a lot to the increase in the cost of living. The issue of lockdown and the general election really affected our economy, but I believe things will be better next year”.
Athman Abdalla who sells sea food, said the attacks carried out in the mainland of Witu is as a result of land ownership.
“In the island there is no al shabaab. This island is safe and peaceful. The ongoing attacks in the mainland could destroy the tourism industry and the economy at large. We depend on tourism here”, said Abdalla.
He said businesses in the island have been going on peacefully and that there is need for investors to come in large numbers to invest in the island to boost economy.
Sports enthusiast Jaffar Aweso has emphasized on the peaceful coexistence of the different tribes in the island.
“People should know that there is peace in Amu Island. If you want the
pleasure, come to the island and you will have fun”, said Aweso.
Another businessman Said Mohamed is left with memories of corona virus that led to the increase in cost of living, but next year he is hopeful that things will be different.
Some of his expectations is that the president will fully fulfill the promises he made during campaign.
And regarding the attacks that happened in Witu, he said they are affecting the economy of the entire county, “these attacks are affecting the economy. But I want to tell tourists and other visitors that Amu Island is safe”.
