January 2025 – Kenya Association of Travel Agents

Inside Kenya’s fresh plan to raise tourist numbers

As the global tourism landscape begins to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, Kenya is rolling out a new ambitious tourism policy aimed at attracting international visitors.

The National Government is keen to position the country as a premier destination in Africa, targeting a significant increase in tourist arrivals this year.

Central to the strategy is the creation of financial incentives designed to attract both international airlines and charter services. The government plans to reduce airport service charges and aviation fuel costs, making it more cost-effective for airlines to operate in the country.

“We want to lower the cost of doing business for airlines to encourage more routes to Kenya,” said Principal Secretary for Tourism John Ololtuaa. “This will not only increase tourist arrivals but also enhance connectivity within the region.” By targeting key international markets in Europe, Asia, and North America, Kenya aims to diversify its tourist demographics.

The government is also focused on attracting charter services that cater to niche markets, such as adventure and eco-tourism, which are gaining popularity among travellers seeking unique experiences.

To support its tourism goals, Kenya is investing in the modernisation of airports and airstrips.

Upgrades will focus on enhancing facilities and services, creating an efficient environment for airlines while improving the overall traveller experience.

The government’s goal is to transform Kenya into a regional hub for both international and domestic tourism.

Additionally, the government plans to streamline travel processes. This includes re-engineering the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to make it easier for tourists to obtain necessary permits.

Simplifying visa requirements will lower barriers for potential travellers, making Kenya an even more appealing destination.

Recognising that collaboration with the private sector is essential, the Kenyan government is actively seeking partnerships with airlines and tourism operators.

These collaborations will not only enhance marketing efforts but also provide a platform for public-private partnerships (PPPs) that can drive investment in tourism infrastructure.

As part of its strategy, Kenya aims to promote the East African region as a single tourist destination.

This joint marketing initiative will eliminate barriers to travel within the region, encouraging tourists to explore multiple countries during their visit.

The new policy also emphasises the importance of domestic tourism as a way to bridge the gaps in international travel.

By developing a Domestic Tourism Strategy, the government hopes to encourage Kenyans to explore their own country, thereby boosting local economies and fostering national pride.

With initiatives to promote under-visited sites and affordable tourism options, the government aims to make travel within Kenya accessible for all citizens.

This focus on domestic tourism is expected to complement international efforts, providing a well-rounded approach to enhancing overall visitor numbers.

As Kenya prepares to welcome an estimated three million tourists by the end of this year, the optimism surrounding the tourism sector is palpable.

The government’s proactive measures, including competitive incentives for airlines and a focus on infrastructure development, signal a commitment to revitalising tourism.

With the right strategies in place, Kenya aims to reclaim its position as a leading tourist destination in Africa.

By enhancing accessibility and promoting unique travel experiences, the country is poised for a robust recovery, setting the stage for a vibrant tourism landscape in the coming years.

Source: Standard Media

Tourism boost as cruise ship MS Ambience with 1,700 travelers docks at Mombasa Port

The vessel arrived from Victoria Port in Seychelles with the tourists from various countries who will spend two days in the coastal town.

The tourism sector at the coast has received another major boost after the cruise ship MS Ambience carrying 1,700 passengers tourists docked at the port of Mombasa Wednesday morning.

Announcing the arrival, the Kenya Ports Authority said the vessel arrived from Victoria Port in Seychelles with tourists from various countries who will spend two days in the coastal town.

“We have received a fleet of vessels since the circuit began sometime in September last year. The Port of Mombasa is honoured to receive cruise vessel MS Ambience on a maiden voyage to Mombasa,” KPA said.

KPA confirmed that additional ships are anticipated to arrive at the port before the cruise season concludes next month.

“This has been supported by the now operational ultra-modern Cruise Terminal which was developed by the Authority to enhance passenger experience at the Port of Mombasa and solidify Kenya’s position as a hub not only for cargo operations but also for cruise tourism in Africa,” noted KPA.

Tourists disembark from MS Ambience after the ship docked at the Mombasa Port on March 27, 2024. (Photo: KPA)

The MS Ambience is scheduled to dock in Durban after departing from Mombasa.

Last month the Bahamas-flagged cruise ship MV World Odyssey ‘Semester at Sea’ made its third visit to the port of Mombasa.

Popularly known as “Semester at Sea” the World’s biggest floating campus which operates academic voyages for students was in Mombasa for six days.

KPA said the port of Mombasa has recorded an increase in cruise vessel calls pointing to improved connectivity at the port which has positioned it not only for cargo operations but also as a hub for cruise tourism in Africa.

A tourist dances after disembarking from MS Ambience at the Mombasa Port on March 27, 2024. (Photo: KPA)

The port has also received its first caller vessels since the beginning of the year.

First callers are vessels that dock at a port for the first time to load/discharge cargo or for passengers to embark or disembark.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua last month said the government is expecting around Sh2 billion from cruise ship tourism.

Source: Eastleigh voice

Hyatt Regency’s Grand Opening Boosts Nairobi’s High-End Hotel Sector

Nairobi’s hospitality sector has welcomed its latest luxurious offering with the grand opening of the Hyatt Regency, which commenced operations on Wednesday.

This new high-end hotel aims to attract an upscale global clientele with its spacious accommodations, large television screens, a spa, and a yoga studio. Positioned alongside established luxury establishments such as GTC Residence Apartments, JW Marriott, and Kempinski, the Hyatt Regency’s debut serves as a marker of Nairobi’s thriving hospitality industry and its corresponding impact on the real estate sector.

Catering to both business and leisure travellers, the city’s hoteliers are working to foster environments that provide guests with a sense of home.
Nev Jiwani, Group Managing Director of Go Places, a key player in connecting hotels and guests, notes a significant shift in guest expectations towards more expansive lodging options.

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“Previously, we used to have small rooms. These days, we have new establishments that are more spacious, and you feel you are in your home,” she explains, underscoring the increasing demand for larger rooms among foreign visitors.

Moreover, tourists are attracted to Kenya not only for business-related events, such as conferences and meetings but also for the country’s unique experiences that encourage extended stays. Local attractions, inclusive of wildlife safaris, mountain climbing, street food tours, destination weddings, and shopping, are becoming integral components of travel packages.

Jiwani highlights the rising trend of destination weddings, stating, “People coming to Kenya want to exchange vows in the Maasai inland or the manyatta. They wish to celebrate traditionally while integrating local experiences with international flair.”

The growing demand for health and wellness amenities, including yoga studios, gyms, and health clubs, reflects a broader trend towards preventative healthcare and self-care, particularly within the trillion-dollar wellness market. According to the Tourism Sector Performance Report 2023 by the Tourism Research Institute, hospitality venues featuring spa facilities are well-positioned to capitalize on this demand.

The report also notes that “80 percent of consumers seek tailored experiences from retailers, and the tourism industry is no exception,” highlighting an expectation for personalized experiences among modern travellers. Denis Glibic, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hyatt Regency, describes Kenya as having significant growth potential in the tourism sector.

Glibic further elaborates on the high-end clientele business model, emphasizing the importance of demand in Nairobi. The city serves as the headquarters for various international organizations, including the United Nations, and is a key hub for visitors facilitated by Kenya Airways and other airlines.

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“We are high-end, and this means we have bigger rooms, bigger televisions, more services, and 24-hour room service, which not many hotels are offering. This is just another addition to the market that sets us a little apart,” says Glibic.

Tourism statistics from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics indicate that tourist arrivals reached 2.087 million in 2023, a notable increase from 1.5 million in 2022 and 871,000 in 2021. According to Hyatt Hotels Corporation, the Hyatt Regency brand in Nairobi aims to provide an unparalleled hospitality experience by merging elements of Kenya’s local culture with its signature service.

Etihad Airways Strengthens Kenya Presence with Premium Office Launch

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE established in 2003, has marked another milestone in its expansion in East Africa with the opening of a new corporate office in Nairobi’s prestigious Global Trade Centre (GTC). The office, operated through Etihad’s General Sales Agent (GSA) ITVAR Travel, was officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 22, 2025 by Ahmad Dib, Etihad Airways General Manager Middle East & Africa, and Dr. Joseph Kithitu, Chairman of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), alongside local business leaders.

The strategic location in Westlands, Nairobi’s premier business district, strengthens Etihad’s presence in Kenya following the launch of direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi in December 2024. Operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with an Airbus A320 aircraft offering eight seats in Business and 150 in Economy, the service connects the two capital cities with morning departures from Abu Dhabi and evening flights from Nairobi.
Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading business hub, with its modern infrastructure and strategic location between Africa and Asia, makes it an increasingly important destination for Kenyan corporate travellers. The city offers world-class facilities for international business and serves as an ideal gateway for companies expanding their global presence.
According to Etihad Airways Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Arik De, this premium location in Nairobi’s Global Trade Centre strengthens the airline’s commitment to the East African market.
“The strong performance of our Nairobi service since its launch last month demonstrates the increasing ties between our two nations. This new office opening underscores our commitment to the Kenyan market as we continue to see growing demand from business and leisure travellers in both directions.”
Dr. Joseph Kithitu, KATA Chairman, added: “The opening of Etihad Airways’ new office in Nairobi’s business hub signals confidence in Kenya’s aviation market. This investment, coupled with their new direct flights, creates valuable opportunities for the travel trade and enhances connectivity for Kenyan travellers.”
The Global Trade Centre, a landmark development in Nairobi’s business district, houses numerous international corporations and is strategically positioned to serve Kenya’s expanding business travel sector.

Kenya eases travel rules for African visitors, except Somalia and Libya

The Cabinet indicated that the initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across Africa. It emphasised that the changes to the eTA system are part of efforts to enhance efficiency and support tourism growth.

The Cabinet has announced new measures to simplify travel for African nationals, exempting most countries on the continent from the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) requirement.

Under the revised policy, visitors from African countries will be permitted to stay in Kenya for up to two months. East African Community (EAC) nationals, however, will continue to enjoy a six-month stay, in line with the EAC’s free movement protocols.

However, Somalia and Libya have been excluded from the exemptions due to ongoing security concerns.

The reforms were made during the first 2025 Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto at State Lodge, Kakamega.

The Cabinet indicated that the initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across Africa.

It emphasised that the changes to the eTA system are part of efforts to enhance efficiency and support tourism growth.

“As part of efforts to support open skies policies and tourism growth, a key proposal is to grant eTA exemptions to all African countries except Somalia and Libya—due to security concerns. This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel

across the continent,” reads the Cabinet dispatch.

The eTA system, introduced in January 2024, mandates all travellers, including children, to obtain prior approval before travelling to Kenya. The permit costs $30 (approximately Sh3,880) and is valid for a single entry, allowing a stay of up to 90 days.

The Cabinet also approved the introduction of an expedited eTA processing option, allowing travellers to receive instant approval. The processing time for eTAs will be capped at 72 hours, depending on operational capacity.

Additionally, the implementation of an Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record system is expected to improve pre-screening, bolster security, and streamline passenger processing at entry points.

Further, the government has waived eTA fees for travellers from Botswana, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Zambia, Comoros, Eritrea, and the Republic of Congo, among others.

The Cabinet has also tasked the Secretaries for National Treasury, Transport, Interior, and Tourism with reviewing and reporting within a week on ways to enhance travellers’ experiences at Kenyan airports.

The move signals Kenya’s return to a more open travel policy, reminiscent of a previous system that allowed citizens from 51 African countries to visit visa-free.

It highlights the government’s commitment to fostering regional integration and facilitating easier travel within the continent.

Source: Eastleigh voice

How Uganda Airlines Reduced Losses by 26% in a Year

The national carrier boosted local suppliers beyond Uganda’s skies by taking their products into in-flight services

Revived in 2019 to enhance connectivity and boost tourism, Uganda Airlines faced turbulence from the start but is now showing signs of recovery, with optimism replacing initial skepticism.

Uganda Airlines has achieved a significant financial milestone by reducing its losses by 26% over the past year, as highlighted in the Uganda Auditor General’s report.

Losses dropped from Shs324.9 billion in 2023 to Shs237.85 billion in 2024, a testament to effective leadership and strategic initiatives aimed at reversing years of financial challenges.

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“The 26% reduction in losses is a clear indication of the strides we’ve made in addressing operational inefficiencies,” said Shakila Rahim Lamar, head of corporate affairs and communication at Uganda Airlines.

She added that the airline’s leadership is optimistic about achieving profitability in the near future, citing planned expansions and continued government support for capital projects as key enablers.

Uganda Airlines was revived in 2019 after nearly two decades in the dust to enhance the country’s connectivity and boost its aviation industry.

Despite initial optimism, the airline grappled with significant financial losses in its early years, exacerbated by legacy contracts, high operational costs, and limited revenue streams.

The appointment of Jenifer Bamuturaki as chief executive in 2022 marked a turning point for the airline.

Tasked with steering the company toward sustainability from is acute loss-making and uncertainty on whether it would survive the cut-throat aviation competition, Ms Bamuturaki implemented a series of bold measures to address inefficiencies and improve revenue generation.

Ms Bamutaraki laid her commitment bare during an engagement with editors in February last year, urging journalists to transform their inquiries into compelling narratives while promoting a balanced relationship between the media and businesses.

“Do you remember the fuelling saga in Dar es Salaam some years ago? I found it hard to believe when the media ran wild with stories suggesting that an aircraft, which was on the ground waiting to refuel, was in danger of crashing,” she said.

Key Measures Implemented

Uganda Airlines, under the stewardship of Bamuturaki, expanded its operations from 11 to 16 routes, including the addition of Mumbai and Lagos.

Ms Lamar told the Nile Post that while these routes incurred initial costs, they significantly boosted passenger traffic and cargo revenues, positioning the airline for long-term growth.

The national carrier attributes this strategic route development to its ability to improve connectivity while increasing revenue streams.

Recognising the potential of cargo services, the airline prioritised this segment, leading to an impressive 380% growth over the past year.

“Over 9,233 tonnes of cargo were transported, establishing cargo operations as a critical revenue stream,” Ms Lamar said.

To maximise limited resources, the airline also utilised a wet lease for an Airbus A320, which has been instrumental in meeting demand on high-traffic routes.

This arrangement allowed Uganda Airlines to increase seat capacity and support passenger growth without the immediate financial burden of outright aircraft acquisition.

Cost management has been a focal point of the airline’s strategy. Uganda Airlines reviewed and renegotiated outdated contracts, streamlined staff wages and benefits, and introduced a self-handling project at Entebbe International Airport to reduce reliance on external providers.

Fuel management mechanisms were also improved to optimize acquisition and usage amidst fluctuating global fuel prices.

Additionally, Uganda Airlines increased local contracting from 10% to 80%, ensuring consistent supply chains while supporting the national economy.

This shift to local suppliers has reduced costs and bolstered Ugandan industries, the airline noted.

Despite these achievements, Uganda Airlines continues to face challenges. Forex exposures, high fuel costs, blocked funds in countries like Nigeria and Burundi, and mandatory aircraft maintenance remain pressing issues.

Ms Lamar highlighted these obstacles but reiterated that the strategic measures adopted have significantly mitigated their impact, setting the airline on a path toward sustainability.

Broader Impact and Future Prospects

In his report for the last financial year – and a maiden one at that – Auditor General Edward Akol, noted that while a number of state-owned enterprises and corporations in Uganda are grappling with worsening financial performance, some have been facing bleak financial outcomes.

Joining Uganda Airlines on the progressive podium were Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), whose losses sharply reduced by up to 78.4%, from Shs17.5 billion to Shs3.78 billion.

Uganda Air Cargo Corporation also showed progress, reducing its losses from Shs10 billion in 2023 to Shs8.21 billion in 2024.

While these figures still represent substantial losses, AG Akol said the trend was encouraging, suggesting that operational adjustments and better financial oversight can result in significant improvements.

Beyond financial performance, Uganda Airlines has made substantial socio-economic contributions.

Operating 20 daily flights across 16 routes, the airline has enhanced regional connectivity and reduced travel times.

Its operations account for 23.6% of Entebbe International Airport’s total traffic, while 90% of onboard consumables are sourced locally, supporting local industries.

Over the past five years, Uganda Airlines has generated Shs1.2 trillion in revenue and created 560 jobs. Looking ahead, the airline plans to expand its operations to the United Kingdom and acquire two midrange freighters, further strengthening its market position.

“We are optimistic about reducing losses further in the next financial year as we expand into new markets and optimise our operations,” said Ms Lamar.

The story of Uganda Airlines highlights how effective leadership and targeted strategies can transform even the most challenging circumstances into a path toward recovery and growth.

Source: Nile post

State eyes 200,000 adventure tourists in five years

NAIROBI, Jan.15 (Xinhua) — Kenya’s tourism ministry said on Tuesday that it aims to attract about 200,000 travelers over the next five years by tapping into the adventure tourism market.

Rebecca Miano, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, said the East African country has launched the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series to diversify the sector away from beach and wildlife products.

“Through these initiatives, we seek not only to attract more international visitors but also to promote local tourism and create economic opportunities for the communities involved,” she said in a statement.

According to Miano, the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series encompasses a diverse range of activities, including hiking, biking, cultural immersions, and farm tours across five counties of Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, and Nandi.

June Chepkemei, chief executive officer (CEO) of the state-owned Kenya Tourism Board, said adventure tourism will allow visitors to discover hidden gems by traversing unique terrains and immersing themselves in the rich and diverse cultures of the participating counties.

Chepkemei noted that adventure tourism is also expected to enable Kenya to develop new tourism pathways by improving its tourism sector beyond the 2.4 million international visitors and 350 billion Kenyan shillings (about 2.7 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue generated in 2024.

She said the tourism sector remains one of the key pillars of the country’s economy as well as a key source of foreign exchange earnings alongside tea, horticulture, and diaspora remittances.

Kenya anticipates hosting more adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, both local and international, who are keen to celebrate Kenya’s beauty through hiking, biking, farm tours, and tea and coffee tastings, the CEO added.

Source: Capital Fm

Is Travel Insurance Necessary? We asked experts

Investing in travel insurance might seem tedious, but it can save you from significant financial loss and stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation.

Travel insurance protects you from certain financial risks and losses that can occur while you’re out exploring another part of the country or the world. These are typically things you couldn’t have predicted and didn’t see coming, from lost luggage to severe weather issues causing a trip or tour to get cancelled.

Southern Living talked with some experts in the insurance and the travel space for the lowdown on this practical yet essential piece of traveling.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Travel insurance coverage varies by company and plan. Policies aren’t one-size fits-all, and there are a range of options to suit all different kinds of travelers and their individual needs.

Lauren Gumport, VP at Faye Travel Insurance, says you’ll often find providers offering a handful of add-ons, if relevant. For example, rental car coverage, vacation rental damage protection, or extreme sports.

“These extras will increase the cost of your policy, while of course also boosting your coverage,” notes Gumport.

A great many people elect to protect their trip with travel medical insurance, since health insurance coverage in the United States doesn’t expand to overseas travel typically. This is why Dana Lewis, Dallas-based owner of DWD Travel & Destination Weddings, says it’s especially important to purchase travel insurance when going out of the country.

“I can’t imagine a scenario where I wouldn’t purchase travel insurance!” she adds.

Who Should Get Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance isn’t just for people who travel often, though frequent travelers may opt for an annual plan instead of buying insurance for an individual trip. It’s really up to what you need, and it’s worth noting that it’s fast and easy to get a free travel insurance quote. You can compare and contrast plans without committing.

Lewis encourages her clients to purchase travel insurance, no matter the travel circumstances. It’s not about a certain type of traveler, she says, since “any age, any person traveling out of their home country, or even in their own country, would benefit if something should happen.”

Gumport agrees that domestic and international travelers should be insured. Basically, “anyone traveling who wants peace of mind in the chance that things go wrong,” should purchase travel insurance.

“Like any insurance, hopefully you never need to utilize it, but should you need it, travel insurance is a lifeline,” says Lewis.

How To Select A Plan

Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA, points to different offerings based on travelers’ needs and budgets. Travelers who take multiple trips a year may save money by purchasing an annual plan while travelers on a budget with few pre-paid expenses may opt for a single trip emergency medical plan to get coverage for medical emergencies and emergency medical transportation, explains Durazo.

It’s important to do your homework, says Gumport, who suggests reading reviews of travel insurance companies. See what fellow travelers are saying before you select a company and policy. Then go about getting a quote based on your total estimated trip cost, destination(s), members of your travel party, and what add-ons are available to supplement your policy with, advises Gumport.

“Many travelers love the ability to Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR). This type of protection lets you nix your trip, just because you feel like it,” adds Gumport.

When To Select A Plan

Durazo suggests purchasing a plan at the same time you book your trip. Many travel insurance plans are offered with a 15-day “free look” review period to ensure the plan you selected is the right fit. If it’s not, you can simply change your policy or request a full refund.

That said, you can wait until the last minute to purchase trip coverage. Buying early or at the time you’ve booked the trip and have the trip’s financials in order offers greater protection, but if you’re headed out of town in a couple of days and suddenly decide you ought to have a travel medical policy, you can still purchase travel insurance.

Bottom line? “Travel insurance is designed to protect you and your vacation from covered, unexpected events, so don’t risk your perfectly-planned trip by leaving without it,” says Durazo.

Source: Southern Living

Airlines Oppose UK ETA Price Hike

Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) opposes the UK Home Office proposal to increase the costs of UK Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) by 60% to GBP 16. Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, commented as follows:

“Proposing to increase ETA costs just a week after the system was introduced is bewildering. If implemented it would be a self-inflicted blow to the UK’s tourism competitiveness. In November the government laid out plans to increase tourist arrivals by 30% to reach 50 million annually by 2030 in pursuit of tourism’s economic benefits. Gouging these travelers with a 60% increase in the ETA is a very bad start. The added cost would come on top of the Air Passenger Duty (APD)—the biggest travel tax in the world—which itself will increase again in April. And let’s not forget that travelers have choice and the EU’s ETIAS will be far better value—costing about a third as much as this proposed pricing and lasting a year longer.

It’s time for the UK government to see the big picture. It has everything to gain by making the UK a more cost-competitive travel destination—including the substantial tax revenues that travelers generate. It makes no sense to discourage visitors with high costs even before they set foot in the country.”

UK aviation and tourism supports 1.6 million jobs currently, providing USD 160.7 billion to the UK’s GDP. Please see the IATA Value of Air Transport to the United Kingdom study for further details.

Source: IATA

African airlines mark 4th consecutive year of no fatal accidents

The content has benefited from initiatives such as the Focus Africa initiative, under which the International Air Transport Association (IATA) improved aviation safety.

African airlines have recorded no fatal air travel accidents for the fourth consecutive year, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported, noting aviation remains the safest mode of transport.

IATA’s 2023 report Annual Safety Report says African airlines have not suffered a single passenger jet aircraft loss or fatal accident since 2020, and that the majority of the continent’s carriers did not suffer any fatal accidents in 2023, whether jet or turboprop.