Kenyan cabinet secretary for tourism Phyllis Kandie has reassured visitors to the country conditions remain “as normal” following an attack on the Westfield shopping centre in Nairobi.

“The attack was a despicable act of cowardice intended to instill fear among Kenyans and our visitors, but the attackers must never be allowed to have their way,” Kandie said. 

“We are hereby therefore affirming that normal activities are going on in all parts of the country despite this grave and enormous challenge.”

The attack has entered its third day, with as many as 15 militants still barricaded into the shopping centre.

As many as 68 people are confirmed dead following the incident, with a further 150 injured.

However, tourism officials have been quick to allay fears.

“We wish to assure tourists that Kenya is peaceful and our security agencies are doing everything possible to ensure that everyone is safe,” continued Kandie.

“Visitors are thus welcome to visit all our tourist facilities across the countries which are operating normally.”

Tour operators and travel agents have confirmed that tourism activities continue uninterrupted.

The government has also scaled up security in other social places across the country.

The government confirmed I was also expecting two crucial conferences - Africa Hotel Investment Forum and the Eco Tourism & Sustainable Tourism Conference – scheduled to take place in Nairobi to go ahead as planned.