In today’s interconnected world, the travel industry thrives on collaboration, shared knowledge, and a united voice. This is where travel industry organisations step in, acting as the backbone of the sector, safeguarding its interests, and driving it toward sustainable growth. From global networks to regional alliances, these bodies ensure that travel professionals are not just service providers but key players in shaping economies, influencing policy, and enhancing customer trust.
At the global level, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) plays a pivotal role in setting standards for airline safety, ticketing, and financial settlement systems. By accrediting travel agents and ensuring harmonised practices worldwide, IATA builds efficiency, trust, and consistency across the air travel ecosystem.
The United Federation of Travel Agents’ Associations (UFTAA) represents national travel agent bodies from over 65 countries, serving as the unified global voice of travel agents. UFTAA champions fair business practices, professional training, and stronger partnerships between agencies and industry suppliers, ensuring agents worldwide have a seat at the decision-making table.
In the United States, the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) stands as one of the most influential advocates for travel professionals. Through legislative advocacy, industry education, and global networking, ASTA has elevated the profession’s credibility and expanded opportunities for cross-border collaboration.
Closer to home, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), representing over 300-member travel agencies, is the leading voice of Kenya’s travel sector. KATA advocates for fair regulations, promotes ethical business practices, and invests in training and innovation to ensure its members remain competitive in an evolving marketplace. By fostering strategic partnerships, KATA positions Kenya as a trusted hub for travel services in Africa.
Regionally, the Association of Eastern and Southern Africa Travel Agents (AESATA) unites national associations from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Somalia, Malawi, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Mauritius, and Botswana. AESATA addresses common challenges such as regulatory changes, technology disruptions, and the need for harmonised service standards across borders.
A prime example of AESATA’s role is the upcoming 2025 AESATA Travel Agents’ Conference, taking place from October 2 to 3, 2025, at the Rainbow Towers Hotel and Conference Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, under the theme “Connect, Collaborate, Co-create.” The event will bring together travel agents, industry leaders, and stakeholders from across the region to network, share insights, and explore strategies for growth. Standard Bank Zimbabwe, as Platinum Sponsor, will highlight its secure and reliable travel payment solutions, reflecting the event’s focus on innovation and collaboration.
The power of these organisations lies in their ability to amplify the industry’s voice. Individually, a travel agency can advocate for its needs, but united under strong associations, those voices gain influence, credibility, and the ability to drive meaningful change. From negotiating airline fare structures to shaping government policy, these organisations ensure that the travel industry remains resilient, trusted, and forward-looking.
In an era of shifting consumer behaviours, rapid technological change, and global uncertainties, travel industry organisations remain the glue that holds the sector together, ensuring that, no matter the turbulence, travel continues to fuel economic growth, cultural exchange, and human connection.
