Gov’t orders Airbnb owners to register as crackdown set to begin

The national government has now ordered Airbnb and short-term accommodation operators to register their properties with the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) in order to guarantee that the properties meet strict standards of guest safety and security.

This in a joint statement released on Tuesday by Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Raymond Omollo alongside his colleagues Anne Wang’ombe (Gender and Affirmative Action), Dr. Beatrice Inyangala (Higher Education and Research), as well as John Ololtuaa (Tourism).

The PSs noted that the move is one of various measures intended to address the recent surge in femicide cases on the said properties.

"Effective immediately, all operators of start-term accommodation rentals, including Airbnbs, are required to register with the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA)," read the statement.

"This registration process is designed to ensure that all accommodations meet the highest standards of safety and security for guests."

The PSs further decreed that effective February 5, 2024, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) will work in tandem with TRA to ensure that Airbnb and lodging owners adhere to the aforesaid directive.

They went ahead to note that the strict penalties will be imposed on operators and properties found not complying with the set regulations.

“Starting from 5th February, 2024, National Government Administrative Officers (NGA0s), in collaboration with the TRA, will commence stringent Inspections of all registered properties. We will subsequently coordinate with booking platforms to restrict unregistered rentals and further institute severe penalties, including fines and revocation in cases of non-compliance," the statement added.

"Resident Associations are encouraged to work closely with law enforcement agencies for effective enforcement. This includes sharing Information, Joint inspections, and coordinated responses to any safety standard violations."

The Principal Secretaries further announced that security guards manning the properties are now required by law to temporarily retain the identification documents and record identification details of everyone entering the premises, including the time of entry and exit.

"Moreover, these measures mandate the installation of CCTV surveillance systems, ensuring that the recording of footage remains consistently up-to-date," they said.

"We urge all stakeholders in the short-term rental sector to adhere to these regulations, recognizing their legal and moral responsibility in ensuring a safe environment for all individuals regardless of gender."