The government of Kenya has appointed Danson Mwazo as the new minister for tourism.

The move follows the surprise sacking of popular tourism minister Najib Balala.

Mwazo, a first time member of parliament for Voi, has been promoted from the ministry of livestock development where he has been serving the country as an assistant minister.

Following his appointment, Mwazo said he will offer his support to existing initiatives to enhance the country’s positioning as the premier tourism destination.

Mwazo added he would ask the treasury for the equivalent of 5 per cent of the tourism sector’s annual earnings to be ploughed back into the industry for marketing, product development and for targeted support.

This would amount to roughly five billion Kenya Shillings in 2012, if only the treasury would be able to follow this logic and comply.

However, outgoing minister Balala had complained the Kenya Tourist Board has received less than asked for previously and had to adjust action programmes.