Kenyan digital creator Jojo has raised serious concerns over racial profiling and unequal service delivery in Kenya’s hospitality sector after describing an incident where staff at a Watamu beach spot asked her group to vacate reserved sunbeds to accommodate white tourists.
In a video published across her social channels, Jojo stated that her group had reserved, paid for, and settled into front-row beach beds along the Watamu coastline in Kilifi County. Minutes into their stay, venue attendants approached the group and instructed them to relinquish the prime location.
According to Jojo, staff explicitly cited the arrival of foreign visitors who wanted the front-row position as the reason for the move.
“What hurt most was that the people carrying out this directive were fellow Africans,” Jojo said, questioning why domestic travelers paying full market rates continue to face secondary treatment in local establishments.
Structural Disparities in Coastal Tourism
Jojo’s account touches on an enduring complaint among domestic travelers along Kenya’s coastline, including popular destinations such as Diani, Malindi, and Watamu.
During high tourism seasons, several beachfront operators prioritize foreign visitors under the assumption that international guests generate higher revenue through currency exchange, extended stays, and larger tips. However, domestic tourism remains the primary financial cushion keeping coastal establishments operational during low seasons, rainy periods, and global travel slumps.
The incident highlights the difficult position of frontline hospitality workers. Local attendants and security staff often enforce informal spatial hierarchies dictated by property managers seeking to maximize foreign visitor spending, putting workers directly in conflict with Kenyan customers.
Legal Protections and Regulatory Oversight
Under Article 27 of the Constitution of Kenya, discrimination on any ground—including race, color, ethnic origin, or social standing—is illegal. Furthermore, public beach areas up to the high-water line are public land governed under environmental protection guidelines.
While establishments hold commercial rights over private furniture and amenities placed on their leased property, denying service or forcibly relocating guests based on racial or national origin violates consumer rights statutes enforced by the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) and the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK).
Past instances of proven discrimination at coastal resorts have resulted in administrative sanctions, public apologies, and regulatory audits. However, enforcement remains largely dependent on public exposure and formal complaints filed by affected patrons.
Culture is constantly shifting, and the art we create defines who we are. I love documenting the creative energy, music, and digital trends that shape our modern identity.
