Former Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala has secured a new global role after being appointed to a senior leadership position at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
In a statement issued on Friday, May 1, WTTC confirmed that Balala has joined its leadership team, bringing extensive experience from public service and international policy engagement.
He will be based at the council’s global office in Madrid, where he has taken up the role of Executive Vice-President for Advocacy, Government Affairs and Research.
Najib Balala Lands Top Position at World Travel & Tourism Council. Photo: Courtesy.
In this position, he is expected to spearhead WTTC’s global advocacy agenda, strengthen government engagement, and oversee policy research.
According to the organisation, Balala’s appointment follows more than 12 years of service as Kenya’s Tourism and Wildlife Minister, a period during which he played a key role in shaping tourism policy and enhancing the sector’s resilience both locally and globally.
WTTC further noted that during his tenure, he guided the industry through political transitions and global crises while fostering strong collaboration with private sector stakeholders.
The Council has also highlighted the role played by Najib Balala during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that Kenya became the first country globally to receive the “Safer Tourism Seal” for its health and safety standards.
The organisation credited Balala’s leadership for driving major transformation in Kenya’s tourism sector through policy reforms and strengthened destination branding.
It also pointed to his diplomatic engagement on international platforms, which helped align government priorities with private sector interests.
Balala will be expected to report to WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara and collaborate closely with Chairman Manfredi Lefebvre in advancing the council’s global tourism agenda.
The former CS welcomed his appointment, describing it as an honour and expressing readiness to serve in his new global role.
He noted he looks forward to working with WTTC leadership, including Chairman Manfredi Lefebvre and President & CEO Gloria Guevara, to advance the organisation’s agenda.
Balala also stated that he intends to draw on his experience in linking public and private sector interests to strengthen the council’s strategic direction.
