In an exciting development for sports fans and travel enthusiasts, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to provide free e-visas to international fans attending the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. This move is not only set to enhance the fan experience but also offers a significant boost to the tourism sector across the host countries. The free e-visa initiative aims to simplify the process of traveling to the tournament, encouraging more visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage and exciting football action that AFCON promises. The 2025 edition of the prestigious tournament, scheduled to take place in the stunning and diverse landscapes of Morocco, is expected to attract thousands of fans from across the globe.

Streamlining Travel with Free E-Visas

The decision to offer free e-visas to AFCON 2025 fans is a bold and innovative step that aligns with the growing trend of sports tourism. By removing the bureaucratic hurdles often associated with visa applications, CAF is opening the doors for fans from every corner of the world to experience the thrill of African football. The e-visa system, which can be easily accessed online, eliminates the need for long queues at embassies and allows fans to apply from the comfort of their homes, making it an incredibly convenient option.

This initiative is set to have a far-reaching impact on the tourism industry in Africa. It encourages not just football fans, but also those looking to experience the continent’s diverse culture, cuisine, and natural wonders. With less paperwork to navigate, more fans are likely to consider taking part in the vibrant atmosphere that AFCON 2025 will offer, transforming the tournament into a true festival of football and culture.

Boosting Africa’s Sports Tourism Appeal

Sports tourism has become a major economic driver worldwide, and Africa is no exception. By offering free e-visas, CAF is positioning AFCON 2025 as a beacon of sports tourism in Africa. Countries like Morocco, which will host the event, are set to benefit from the influx of international visitors, contributing significantly to the local economy. From bustling cities like Casablanca to the stunning Atlas Mountains and the rich history of Marrakech, Morocco offers a wide range of attractions that fans can explore before or after the tournament.

The convenience of the free e-visa system is likely to spur a rise in travel bookings for fans eager to attend AFCON and explore the country’s top tourist destinations. The availability of e-visas, which typically offer quicker processing times, will also lead to a spike in tourism numbers as international visitors are encouraged to experience Morocco’s beauty and cultural richness in tandem with the football festivities.

Sports and Travel: A Perfect Combination

The synergy between sports and travel has always been evident, but AFCON 2025’s free e-visa initiative takes this connection to new heights. Sports events like AFCON not only celebrate athletic achievement but also offer fans the opportunity to engage in cultural exchange and global unity.

Travel and tourism agencies are already anticipating a boost in bookings for the duration of the tournament, as more fans plan to take advantage of the free e-visa offer. The opportunity to attend a high-profile football tournament while also enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavours of an African country will undoubtedly prove to be an irresistible package for sports tourists.

Future Prospects for Sports Tourism in Africa

This forward-thinking move by CAF signals a larger trend in Africa’s increasing emphasis on sports tourism. Countries across the continent are starting to recognize the potential of sporting events to not only showcase athletic talent but also draw international visitors. The introduction of free e-visas could pave the way for more similar initiatives, encouraging future sporting events to attract even larger audiences.

By promoting Africa as a prime destination for sports tourism, CAF is helping to transform the continent into a hub for international travel, where fans can experience the best of both sports and culture. As AFCON 2025 nears, the anticipation among global fans is growing, with the promise of a seamless, hassle-free travel experience.

Conclusion

CAF’s decision to offer free e-visas to fans attending AFCON 2025 is a major win for sports tourism in Africa. It simplifies travel, encourages global fans to explore Morocco, and boosts the tourism sector across the continent. With a combination of thrilling football and the opportunity to experience Africa’s diverse cultures and landscapes, AFCON 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event for both sports fans and travel enthusiasts alike.

Source: TravelandTourworld.com

Kenya is officially one of Africa’s digital travel frontrunners. The country is now using digital technology in the tourism sector better than any other country on the continent, except for three. This news was made public during the global tourism forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, applauding Kenya’s capability to utilize technology to improve tourism services. Kenya’s ranking is evidence of Africa’s digital transformation in the travel sector. It shows how innovative Kenya has become and how quickly her tourism sector is growing on a global scale.

Kenya’s latest recognition puts the country in the tier of Africa’s most trailblazing tourism market. In the ranking, Kenya’s only major competitors are South Africa, Mauritius, and Botswana. The United States is still the top dart in the world, but Kenya’s latest ranking confirms that her reputation as Africa’s digital travel destination is indeed growing. This ranking displays how quickly digital marketing and smart tourism techniques are evolving to shape travel on the continent.

Kenya’s Digital Tourism Campaign: Driving Global Visibility

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is leading the development and progressing the foremost digital tourism initiatives in Kenya. Taking the opportunity to implement digital marketing techniques that showcase the Country’s Tourism, KTB Improved the visibility of Kenya and its competitors in the travel industry. They showcased travel destinations like the Maasai Mara, Nairobi, and its Urban Beach and Cultural Heritage.KTB digitally marketed tourism to Kenya by employing story-telling in travel videos and in videos promoting travel apps.

Various digital travel apps, and influencer marketing provided Real-Time Travel updates to digitally engaged visitors. Users were vlogged on their travel journeys to Kenya’s major attractions and the country’s lesser-known travel destinations.

KTB Nairobi Maasai Mara. Digital marketing is created tourism in Kenya’s other regions. Kenya digital tourism marketing is promoting more regional tourism. Kenya tourism marketing diversifies travel to more remote and rural destinations, stimulating the local tourism economy.creating

The Growth of Kenya’s Digital Tools Integration in the Tourism Sector

Kenya appears fourth in Africa in digital tourism. This placement showcases the trend within Africa’s Integration of Digital Technologies in Africa’s Tourism. Digital Technologies Integration in Africa’s Tourism includes mobile bookings, digital payments, social media marketing, and AI. They transform the marketing and servicing of Africa tourism destination offerings.

For Kenya, the Digital Transformation of Kenya tourism is not only the marketing. Increased Digital Technologies Integration Increased Transformation of Kenya Tourism Mobil Apps, Web Portals and Digital Content Integration Researching, booking, and planning destination travels is the same as closed itineraries planning. This integration is even more crucial as the mobile-first apps and digital economies of Africa.

Abundant Digital Kenya Tourism Integration Travel Engagement as Africa tourism marketing and tourism engagement model. Integrated Digital Technologies provide efficient and scalable means of meeting integrated digital technologies in the tourism market absorbed. Online integration of information and booking of digital travel services encourage travelers to actively engage and explore the offerings. In Kenya, digital tourism offers encourage the engagement of active travelers. Digital tools in tourism enhances user experience and satisfaction.

Engaging Youth and Innovating for the Future

As part of its digital tourism strategy, the Government of Young Miano has collaborated with the youth of the country in digital tourism. Miano says, ‘is in support of the innovative digital tourism products young people develop’. The government is working on training and incorporating youth in digital skills, content creation, digital marketing, and hospitality work.

Kenya is trying to achieve its goal of a sustainable, youth-driven tourism economy by working with the youth in shaping the tourism industry. The devolution of entrepreneurship and tech of tourism is producing a new cadre of tourism leaders in the sector, which is agile to the new digital trends and tourism.

Extending Other Annexes of the World and the Regional Tourism of Kenya

The growing Digital is Tourism in Kenya is getting very positive results. There has been an increased flow of International arrivals to the country with Kenya being the lead in (ECO) tourism, safari tourism, cultural tourism and digital marketing and tourism. The country has effective digital marketing of touris,m which enables the potential tourist to access information on the visa requirements, accommodation and transport arrangements as well as activities and services they are expected from the host community. Kenya’s tourism digital marketing is the backbone for quality tourism service delivery.

Kenya’s Digital Transformation and its Benefits on Regional Tourism

Kenya’s digital advances also affect its regional tourism positively. Thanks to Kenya’s access to digital tools, the country will now be able to target potential tourists travelling from EAC and sub-Saharan countries. This identified target market will be crucial, especially during the digital travel market recovery period.

To add, tourists travelling to Kenya will offer local businesses and hospitality providers more opportunities. This will help increase the total income and employment opportunities created in the country. Overall, the increase will support the sustainable tourism development goals aligned with Kenya’s vision.

Conclusion

Kenya being recognised for the 4th position in marketing digital tourism in the African Continent, shows the country’s commitment and active participation in exploring tourism marketing and management through digital technology and tools. The commitment from the Kenya Tourism Board to marketing and promotion increased access and interaction, therefore elevating tourism within the country. Finally, with increased digital infrastructure on the continent, Kenya is rightly positioned to undertake further innovative approaches to tourism digital marketing, having established investments on youth innovation and tourism digital marketing.

Source: TravelandTourworld.com

Kenya Airways has introduced a new product, KQ Ezesha, which aims to make air travel more accessible, affordable and inclusive for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The program marks a major step in the airline’s journey toward creating equal travel opportunities for all passengers.

The name Ezesha means “to validate and empower,” perfectly capturing the heart of this initiative a promise to remove barriers and make every journey dignified and seamless.

For years, air travel has presented challenges for travelers with disabilities, from cost concerns to limited accessibility options. Studies show that 70% of PWDs avoid air travel due to such barriers. Kenya Airways recognized this gap and responded with a comprehensive solution designed around three key features: affordable travel, accessible transfers, and global inclusion.

1. Affordable, Inclusive Travel

Ezesha ensures that inclusivity doesn’t come at a premium cost. Under the program, PWDs enjoy up to 18% off international flights and 10% off domestic flights.

Beyond discounted fares, passengers also receive dedicated care and support throughout their journey from booking to boarding and beyond. The aim is to make air travel not just possible, but enjoyable and stress-free.

2. Accessible Transfers and Seamless Journeys

Kenya Airways understands that accessibility shouldn’t end at the airport. Through strategic partnerships with accessible travel companies, Ezesha extends its support to the ground experience by offering discounted accessible airport transfers, hotel bookings, and park tours.

This integrated approach ensures that travelers can move from the airport to their next destination with ease, comfort and safety.

3. Championing Global Inclusion

Ezesha isn’t just about flying, it’s about advocacy. The airline actively supports major international conferences that promote inclusivity, such as the Inclusive Africa Conference and the World Deaf Federation Conference.

By offering exclusive discounts for delegates and participants, Kenya Airways is helping ensure that conversations around inclusion and accessibility reach new heights.

With KQ Ezesha, Kenya Airways reaffirms its commitment to being the Pride of Africa not only by connecting continents but by ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can share in the freedom of travel.

As this new chapter unfolds, Ezesha stands as both a promise and a beginning a reminder that the skies truly belong to everyone.

To book, one can visit any of the Kenya Airways CTO/ATO in East Africa.

Kenya’s travel industry is undergoing a quiet but profound digital transformation. From how tourists book safaris to how they pay for park entry, the country’s tourism ecosystem is shifting into the digital age—driven by innovation, necessity, and changing traveler expectations.

In recent years, the Kenyan travel experience has evolved from paper tickets and cash transactions to a seamless digital journey. The rise of e-visas, contactless payments, and mobile-based bookings has redefined how visitors plan, purchase, and experience their trips. For an industry once dominated by manual systems and in-person transactions, this new digital reality is reshaping everything from park management to customer service.

E-Visas and Seamless Entry
When Kenya transitioned to a fully electronic visa system in 2024, it marked a major milestone in the government’s effort to modernize travel processes. Visitors can now apply for visas online, upload documents, and receive approvals within days. For many travelers, the convenience has made Kenya more accessible—and less intimidating—compared to destinations that still rely on paper-based border controls.

Immigration officials say the digital system has also improved security, reduced queues, and streamlined data collection. By centralizing travel information, Kenya is better able to track arrivals, monitor trends, and plan infrastructure around real demand.

Mobile Payments Revolutionizing Tourism
Few countries have embraced mobile money like Kenya. From city hotels to remote lodges in Samburu, the ability to pay using M-Pesa or card has become standard practice. For small operators and community-based tourism enterprises, mobile payments have opened doors to international visitors and reduced the risks of handling cash.

Recent system upgrades by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), for instance, now require park entry payments via digital platforms. While this move has stirred debate over new transaction charges, it reflects a broader shift toward transparency and efficiency. Tour operators note that digital payments reduce fraud and speed up reconciliation, though they also call for more consultation when implementing changes.

AI and Personalised Experiences
Artificial intelligence is emerging as the next frontier in Kenya’s tourism and hospitality sector. Local travel tech startups and hotel chains are experimenting with AI-driven chatbots, dynamic pricing models, and customer data analytics to personalize experiences.

Imagine a system that learns a traveler’s preferences—birdwatching, hiking, or cuisine—and recommends tailored itineraries in real time. Or an AI chatbot that answers visitor queries about weather, flight connections, and visa policies instantly, without human intervention.

For hotels and tour operators, AI tools are improving efficiency behind the scenes too, from automating bookings and room management to predicting demand peaks and optimizing marketing spend. As competition for tourists intensifies, data-driven insights are becoming essential for survival.

The Data Advantage
Perhaps the most transformative element of all is data. Every online booking, digital payment, and visa application generates information that can inform smarter policy and planning. For Kenya’s tourism authorities, this presents a rare opportunity to move from estimates to evidence—tracking visitor flows, identifying high-potential markets, and understanding seasonal patterns.

Better data can help tailor marketing campaigns, allocate resources, and manage the environmental impact of tourism. It can also empower local communities and small enterprises to understand their markets and improve their offerings.

Balancing Progress and Access
Even as the digital wave transforms Kenya’s travel landscape, the transition has not been without challenges. Connectivity gaps in remote regions, transaction costs, and the digital divide among smaller operators remain concerns. There is also an ongoing debate over privacy and the responsible use of customer data.

Still, most stakeholders agree that Kenya’s future in tourism will be defined by how well it embraces digital transformation while keeping the human touch that defines authentic travel experiences.

The country that pioneered mobile money is now positioning itself as a digital tourism hub for Africa—efficient, data-savvy, and increasingly intelligent. If managed inclusively, Kenya’s digital shift could not only enhance convenience but also make travel fairer, safer, and more rewarding for both visitors and those who host them.

Kenya’s travel and tourism industry is once again in the spotlight, and this time not for record arrivals or new attractions, but for a storm brewing around new “gateway charges” introduced by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). The charges, ranging between five and eight per cent on all payments made through the new online park entry system, have ignited protests from tour operators, travel agents, and hoteliers who say the move will make Kenya’s already expensive wildlife experience even costlier.

At a press conference in Nairobi this week, the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) and allied associations including the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), called on KWS to suspend the new charges, citing lack of consultation and transparency. They argue that while digitising park payments is a step in the right direction, quietly adding extra costs to transactions risks driving tourists away at a time when regional competition is stronger than ever.

The new system limits payments to M-Pesa and Visa and automatically applies a service fee to each transaction. KWS says the intention is to streamline payments and curb revenue leakages. But many in the sector view it as an extra burden added to a struggling industry still recovering from the pandemic and global economic disruptions.

Beyond the Fees: A Bigger Question
Behind the frustration lies a deeper issue—how resilient and innovative is Kenya’s tourism product? If a single policy change can shake confidence across the sector, it may be time to rethink what the country is selling, how it is packaged, and who it targets.

For decades, Kenya’s tourism identity has rested on the twin pillars of wildlife and the coast. It remains a powerful combination, but an increasingly narrow one. The modern traveller, exposed to a world of options, seeks more than game drives and beaches. They want immersive culture, wellness experiences, local cuisine, sustainability, and authentic encounters that connect them to the people and stories behind a destination.

Turning Pressure into Opportunity
If higher costs are inevitable, the industry must find ways to offer higher value. That means enhancing the quality of experiences within parks, improving storytelling around conservation, and adding layers of authenticity to the visitor journey. Kenya has the potential to lead in eco-tourism, Agri-tourism, heritage tourism, and community-based travel, but this will require investment, creativity, and collaboration.

Beyond the parks, the country must promote its lesser-known gems—mountain trails, birding routes, historical towns, festivals, and wellness retreats. A more diversified product spreads tourism benefits across counties while reducing dependence on a few flagship destinations.

Collaboration Is Key
To make this shift, trust between government and industry is vital. Policy decisions, including pricing or system changes, must be made through open consultation. A transparent, predictable environment gives confidence to investors and travel partners, while abrupt adjustments risk eroding long-term goodwill.

The controversy over gateway fees has exposed how delicate the balance within the tourism ecosystem can be. Yet it also presents a chance to modernise—not just payments and systems, but the very identity of Kenyan tourism.

A Call to Redefine Kenya’s Story
Kenya remains one of the world’s most beloved destinations. But to stay competitive, the country must sell more than park entry and accommodation. It must sell meaning, depth, and discovery. The focus should shift from cost to value, from transactions to experiences.

If handled wisely, this moment could become a turning point—one where Kenya redefines its tourism story for a new generation of travellers and proves that even amid rising costs, value and vision can keep the country’s tourism heartbeat strong.