Kenyans have blasted the tourism ministry for appointing British model Naomi Campbell, instead of a Kenyan, as the ambassador for the Kenyan tourism board.

The news of her appointment has stirred controversy among Kenyans with many expressing their displeasure on social media.

In an official statement, the ministry said the supermodel will help promote the marketing of Kenya as an ideal tourism and travel destination to the world.

Some felt the ambassadorial role should have been given to a Kenyan making an impact internationally, like actress Lupita Nyong’o or comedian Elsa Majimbo, while others leapt to Campbell’s defence.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala has been forced to explain his decision to appoint British supermodel Naomi Campbell as the Magical Kenya International Tourism Ambassador.

Balala, in a Twitter post, said Ms Campbell’s appointment to promote Kenyan tourism abroad is meant to strengthen the domestic market and not take away anything from it.

“Naomi Campbell will be Magical Kenya’s International Tourism Ambassador. That doesn’t take away from our domestic market, it only strengthens it. #MagicalKenya,” twitted Mr Balala.

In an official statement, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife said Ms Campbell had been tasked with promoting Kenya as an ideal tourism and travel destination to the world.

This, according to the ministry, was agreed upon following a meeting between the 50-year-old English model and the Tourism CS.