Kisumu city authorities have imposed strict regulations on Airbnb operations due to security and criminal concerns.
City Manager Abala Wanga ordered all operators to register and obtain a one-year operating license, resulting in temporary closures until compliance is achieved.
“We want everyone to comply with the imposed a temporary ban on Airbnb operations in the city and those who fail to comply with new security and licensing regulations, will be arrested,’’ he said, adding all, therefore have to register afresh even those who have complied have to do so to allow them to archive their business data.
This move comes in response to rising criminal activities in some short-term rental properties, and also rising cases of insecurity within the city estates.
The authorities declared at the Kisumu County Commissioners office that
all Airbnb operators in the city must register with the city management and obtain an operating license.
Key requirements include installing security measures such as CCTV cameras and ensuring that detailed property information (location, capacity, and amenities) is submitted to the county government. Operators were given two weeks’ notice to comply, even as the authorities plan to conduct random raids starting today to enforce these rules.
“Those found operating without the required licenses or security systems will face closure and legal actions, including arrests,’’ announced Wanga.
The new regulations aim to protect both hosts and guests while restoring confidence in Kisumu’s hospitality industry, which has been tarnished by recent criminal incidents involving Airbnbs.
“Failure to comply with the new regulations will result in property closures and potential legal action. These changes reflect growing concerns over the misuse of Airbnbs, which have been linked to a series of criminal incidents in the area of late,’’ said Wanga.
