Media reports that Fairmont The Norfolk in Nairobi had closed indefinitely and that all employees had been retrenched due to the impact of COVID-19 are incorrect, according to its umbrella organisation, French group, Accor.

Tourism Update contacted Accor and was told that the hotel was only closed temporarily and that no employees have been retrenched.

“Fairmont The Norfolk and Fairmont Mara Safari Club have had to take strategic business-related decisions that have resulted in the temporary closure of both properties for an unknown duration,” said Director of PR & Communications of Middle East & Africa for Accor, Sarah Fernandez.

“We can confirm that at this point redundancies have not yet been made and we are in discussion with all concerned parties to identify the best way forward under the circumstances. The safety and wellbeing of our team members remain our utmost priority.”

ATCNews has reported that the Country Manager for Fairmont The Norfolk, Mehdi Morad, had sent out another memo to all employees, withdrawing his previous memo of May 27 on the closure of the establishment.

“We would like reiterate that the owners, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts and subsequently Accor Hotels are very committed toward the health, safety and wellbeing of the employees,” said Morad in the memo.