Thai firm Dusit International, has announced it could reopen the dusitD2 Nairobi hotel as soon as June, in an act of solidarity with the local community, following the terrorist siege in January. Located in Nairobi’s exclusive Westlands neighbourhood, the hotel is part of the 14 Riverside complex — a commercial hub, containing restaurants, shops and offices.

The complex was targeted on 15 January 2019 in an incident which claimed the lives of 21 innocent people, including four full-time Dusit employees and two contract security staff.  No guests were harmed in the attack.

“Spirit of determination”

Demonstrating the resilience of the local community, the 14 Riverside complex has already sprung back into action with tenants and business owners returning to help beautify the area. Office buildings in 14 Riverside re-opened on 28 January with additional security measures bolstering the place.

dusitD2 Nairobi, which has been temporarily closed since the incident, is located at the far end of the project in a private location away from the main entrance.

Recognising the hotel’s role as a major facilitator of business in Nairobi, the management and staff of dusitD2 Nairobi are determined to reopen the hotel as a beacon to the 14 Riverside community can thrive once again. This includes enhancing the property and planning a series of community events, ahead of a tentative relaunch in June.

Positive energy

Michael Metaxas, general manager of dusitD2 Nairobi, said: “The spirit of determination that runs through the entire 14 Riverside community is heartening to see, and the support from everyone has been, and continues to be, incredible. This positive energy is driving us as we prepare the hotel to delight guests and visitors once more with delightful service, impressive design, and safe and comfortable surroundings for people to socialise, stay and conduct business.”

“Morale is high and everyone is pulling together”

Dusit International’s chief operating officer, Lim Boon Kwee, said: “While we are still deeply affected by the recent events at the 14 Riverside complex, morale is high and everyone is pulling together to create a special return for the hotel.

“As ever, the safety and well-being of our guests and employees remain our priority, and we will continue to have rigorous security procedures in place that contribute to the high levels of comfort and care for which we are known worldwide.”