The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture is contemplating reviewing grading system of the hospitality sector in a bid to improve quality standards.
This was revealed by Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture Michael Usi on the sidelines of a ground-breaking ceremony for a new business complex to be constructed in Blantyre.
Usi said some hospitality service providers have 5 star ratings but their services is below expectation.
He added that the ministry would be revising the grading system to look at the industry holistically for players to operate in line with international standards.
“We are in a global community and we cannot have our own standards. Therefore, we should adopt the standards of those that are ahead of us and, that way, we will run faster to compete with them,” he said.
Malawi Tourism Council Board Chairperson Jones Malili welcomed the option, saying it would help bring sanity to the industry.
Malili said the board had been receiving complaints from stakeholders over poor services.
“If there is going to be a review, that will be good and we will fully support it because this will bring not only sanity to the market but also clarity in terms of pricing in the industry so that people get what they deserve,” he said.
Justin Mkweu is a fast growing reporter who currently works with Times Group on the business desk.
He is however flexible as he also writes about current affairs and national issues.