The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), in partnership with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), has taken a significant step toward strengthening coordination within Kenya’s aviation and travel ecosystem following a high-level engagement session held at Moi International Airport (MIA).
The engagement brought together KATA members, airport management, and representatives from key operational departments for a comprehensive briefing on airport operations and regulatory processes. The session was designed to enhance mutual understanding between travel agents and airport authorities, with the ultimate goal of improving operational efficiency and passenger experience at one of Kenya’s busiest international gateways.
At the heart of the discussions was a detailed presentation on the overall operations of Moi International Airport, providing KATA members with insights into how various departments function and interact on a daily basis. Specific engagements focused on security procedures, passenger facilitation, customs operations, immigration processes, and port health requirements—all critical components in the smooth movement of travelers through the airport.
This forum allowed travel agents to raise operational concerns, seek clarifications, and propose solutions to recurring challenges encountered in the handling of passengers, documentation, and compliance requirements.
Speaking during the session, KATA Coast Liaison Patrick Kamanga underscored the importance of sustained dialogue and collaboration between industry stakeholders and airport authorities, noting that effective communication remains central to the delivery of seamless travel services.
“These engagements are critical in ensuring smoother airport operations and improved coordination between travel agents and airport departments,” Kamanga said. “By working closely with KAA and other agencies at the airport, we are strengthening efficiency, compliance, and the overall passenger experience at Moi International Airport.”
He added that such forums not only help align operational expectations but also empower travel agents with up-to-date knowledge on regulatory and procedural changes, enabling them to better serve travelers and airline partners.
The engagement highlighted KATA’s broader commitment to capacity building and stakeholder engagement, particularly in the Coast region, which remains a key hub for international tourism, trade, and connectivity. Moi International Airport plays a vital role in supporting coastal tourism and facilitating access to Kenya’s hospitality offerings, making effective coordination among stakeholders essential.
Strengthening Partnerships for a Thriving Travel Industry
In a related development aimed at reinforcing industry resilience, Guaranty Trust Bank (Kenya) Ltd. paid a courtesy visit to the KATA Coast Office, signaling growing interest from the financial sector in supporting Kenya’s travel and tourism industry.
The meeting, hosted by the KATA Coast Executive Officer, provided a platform for exploratory discussions on potential areas of partnership and membership collaboration. Talks focused on identifying enhanced financial solutions and tailored productsthat could support travel agents in managing cash flows, accessing credit, and investing in business growth amid an evolving market environment.
Both parties explored collaborative initiatives designed to empower KATA members, strengthen business sustainability, and unlock new opportunities across the travel value chain. The discussions also emphasized the role of innovation and strategic financing in helping travel agencies adapt to changing consumer behavior, digital transformation, and emerging global travel trends.
KATA noted that partnerships with financial institutions are instrumental in advancing member interests and building a more connected, competitive, and financially resilient travel industry. By aligning with strategic partners, the association aims to create tangible value for its members while supporting the broader growth objectives of Kenya’s tourism sector.
As Kenya continues to position itself as a leading regional travel and tourism hub, KATA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering collaboration across public and private sector stakeholders. Through operational engagements, strategic partnerships, and regional presence, the association remains focused on strengthening service delivery, enhancing industry standards, and supporting the long-term growth of the country’s travel and tourism ecosystem.
