Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba back for 2025 editions!

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Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba back for 2025 editions!

Johannesburg, South Africa – Mark your calendars for the 2025 editions of the  African continent’s trade events designed to elevate the African continent’s leisure tourism and business events industry.

South African Tourism-owned Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba are back in 2025 and are set to enhance business connections and networking opportunities. These Pan Africa shows will once again offer robust agendas featuring a diverse range of exhibitors, insightful workshops, and keynote presentations from industry leaders and experts, providing opportunities for global tourism professionals to connect, collaborate, and create lasting value and economic impact.

Meetings Africa, the continent’s premier business events trade show, is set to take place from the 24th to the 26th  of February at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, Gauteng province, in partnership with the Gauteng Tourism Authority and Johannesburg Tourism Company.

Africa’s Travel Indaba will take place from the 12th to the 15th   of May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban in partnership with Durban Tourism and Tourism KwaZulu-Natal and the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission.

Meetings Africa focuses on highlighting the African business events products and promoting closer collaboration for the continent sector’s growth. The show will again feature a dedicated educational programme that unites and builds partnerships, driving the business events sector forward. By connecting the best of the African business events industry with relevant buyers from across the globe, Meetings Africa creates an environment conducive to transacting and building quality connections.

Meetings Africa 2025 will commence with a Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on 24 February 2025, providing a platform for professionals to forge new partnerships, explore collaborative ventures, and gain invaluable insights from industry experts. This exclusive prelude sets the stage for the main event, ensuring attendees maximise their networking potential.

Under the theme, “Africa’s Success Built on Quality Connections”, Meetings Africa emphasises the importance of forging strong, meaningful relationships in driving the continent’s economic progress and industry innovation. The trade show will also provide a platform to showcase Africa’s leading and diverse business event offerings to decision-makers from key source markets worldwide.

Reflecting on Meetings Africa’s Success of 2024:

  • 382 exhibitors representing 22 African countries displayed the diverse and dynamic nature of the continent’s tourism landscape.
  • 371 international and local buyers were in attendance, with a total of 3,480 delegates engaged in the event, underscoring its significance in the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) calendar.
  • Over 8,150 meetings were conducted between buyers and exhibitors, highlighting the event’s role in creating substantial business opportunities.
  • The airline pavilion featured nine airlines, emphasising the critical role of aviation in connecting the continent.
  • 25 SMMEs (Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises) displayed their innovative solutions, demonstrating Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit.
  • 179 members of the media provided extensive coverage, amplifying the event’s reach and impact.
  • In total, 63 countries were represented.

“Meetings Africa 2025 is not just a trade show; it’s a catalyst for business success,” said Minister of Tourism,  Patricia de Lille. “We look forward to welcoming exhibitors and buyers from our continent and from  around the world to South Africa.”

“Meetings Africa 2024 has had a significant impact on South Africa’s economy, contributing R420 million to the GDP and creating over 770 jobs. The event showcased the strength of South Africa’s business events industry as a key driver of economic growth, generating R27 million in national tax revenue and providing significant business opportunities for exhibitors. Beyond economic gains, Meetings Africa emphasised sustainable practices and supported small local businesses, provided great networking opportunities for exhibitors from the rest of the continent, further elevating South Africa’s profile as an attractive and appealing destination for global conferences and events,” Minister de Lille added.

Africa’s Travel Indaba focuses on showcasing the African continent’s leisure tourism products and promoting partnerships geared towards advancing the continent’s growth. Africa’s Travel Indaba will also lead with a Business Opportunity Networking Day featuring industry and business experts and leaders sharing knowledge. 

The 2024 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba hosted 9280 registered delegates, marking an incredible 7% increase when compared to 2023. No less than 24,000 meetings were held between exhibitors and buyers.  Additionally, the event featured over 1200 exhibitors who displayed an impressive array of African tourism products and experiences.

The economic activities triggered by Africa’s Travel Indaba, from event infrastructure to accommodation establishments, restaurants, and shuttle services, were significant.

The direct economic impact on the city was no less than R226 million, with a spillover effect contributing an additional R333 million. The overall contribution to the city’s GDP exceeded R500 million, indicating significant economic benefits and over 1 000 jobs created, especially for the youth.

“For Africa’s Travel Indaba we look forward to working with all our partners to showcase the city of Durban and the greater Kwa Zulu-Natal province once again and, indeed, the rest of our country. Given the continent’s wide variety of tourism products and experiences, Africa’s Travel Indaba showcases a wide variety of exhibitors and continues to be the best Pan Africa leisure global trade show for all our buyers, exhibitors, media and other stakeholders,” Minister de Lille said.

Looking forward to 2025, both Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba, will be tailored to  provide immersive experiences and provide excellent value for exhibitors, buyers and media alike.

By connecting the best of the African leisure and business events industry with relevant buyers from across the globe, both Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba create an environment conducive to transacting and building quality connections.

  • Meetings Africa Dates:

24 February 2025: Business Opportunities Networking Day (BONDay)

25 – 26 February 2025: Exhibition Days

Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

  • Africa’s Travel Indaba Dates:

12 May 2025: Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay)

13 -15 May 2025: Exhibition Days

Venue: Durban International Convention Centre

More announcements will be made on www.southafrica.net

Source: ATTA

Dutch charter airline resumes flights to East Africa

Bryan Obala

Kata_kenya

Mombasa, Kenya: TUI Fly’s resumption of flights reconnects Kenya’s coastal tourism to Europe, In a significant move for Kenya’s tourism industry, TUI Fly has resumed operations to Mombasa International Airport after a six-year break. The inaugural flight was greeted with enthusiasm by local stakeholders and government officials, marking a milestone in Kenya’s efforts to re-establish direct connections with European travelers. This return is expected to be a game-changer for the region’s tourism sector, stimulating the local economy and offering new travel options to European tourists seeking to visit Mombasa’s picturesque beaches, national parks, and cultural landmarks.

The Return of TUI Fly: A Key Development for Kenyan Tourism

After its suspension of flights to Mombasa in 2018 due to various market challenges, including changing demand patterns and the global downturn in travel, TUI Fly has once again resumed service to the coastal city. Known for operating flights to popular vacation destinations, TUI Fly’s return to Mombasa is seen as a direct response to the increasing need for enhanced connectivity between Europe and Kenya. Previously, TUI Fly had established regular direct routes linking Mombasa to several key European cities, providing travelers with convenient access to the region’s renowned beaches, wildlife parks, and rich cultural experiences.

The airline’s return comes at a time when Kenya’s tourism sector is focused on rebuilding and expanding following the disruptions caused by the pandemic. TUI Fly’s presence is expected to make a significant contribution to this recovery, especially by attracting more European visitors to Kenya’s coastal region, which had seen a gap in direct international flight options since TUI Fly ceased operations.

Boosting European Tourism to Kenya

Tourism is one of the key industries driving Kenya’s economy, and the return of TUI Fly to Mombasa aligns with efforts to revive the sector. The European market is a crucial source of tourists for Kenya, particularly for the coastal city, which is known for its white sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean, the diverse marine life in its coastal waters, and national parks that are home to Africa’s famed wildlife. By re-establishing direct flight routes, the airline will help to improve the accessibility of Mombasa as a holiday destination, making it easier for European travelers to visit the region. This is particularly important as international travel is rebounding after pandemic-related restrictions, and many tourists are looking for new and safe destinations.

The resumption of services will also help alleviate some of the transportation barriers that have hindered the tourism industry since TUI Fly’s departure. It is expected that the presence of a major European carrier like TUI Fly will stimulate demand for both leisure and business travel to the region, further strengthening Kenya’s position as a key destination in East Africa.

Economic Impact and Future Prospects for Kenya’s Hospitality Sector

The renewed route between Mombasa and Europe is likely to have a ripple effect across Kenya’s hospitality and tourism industries. Increased tourism from Europe is expected to directly benefit hotels, resorts, safari lodges, and other related businesses along Kenya’s coastline. Additionally, the renewed flight connection will bolster local economies by increasing demand for services such as transport, dining, and entertainment. The wider regional economy is also set to gain from enhanced visitor spending, which can foster job creation and further investment in tourism infrastructure.

Kenya’s tourism authorities have been actively working to expand the country’s appeal to international markets by promoting its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife. With TUI Fly’s return, Kenya is poised to continue attracting more tourists, particularly in the post-pandemic era, where travelers are increasingly looking for unique experiences in destinations that are both exotic and accessible.

What TUI Fly’s Return Means for Global Travelers

TUI Fly’s return to Mombasa will not only benefit the Kenyan tourism industry but will also provide European travelers with more direct options for holidaying in one of East Africa’s most scenic locations. The route will likely become popular with tourists seeking an escape to the Indian Ocean coast, where they can explore Kenya’s coastal culture, wildlife reserves, and enjoy a variety of beach activities. The availability of direct flights will make it easier for tourists to travel to Mombasa, reducing the need for layovers or connecting flights that were previously required to reach the region.

This move is also expected to drive competition among other carriers serving the region, potentially leading to improved services and additional flight options for travelers. For European tourists, the return of TUI Fly could also open the door to more budget-friendly travel opportunities to Kenya, as the airline’s presence could encourage other carriers to increase their flights to Mombasa.

The Re-emergence of Kenya as a Premier Tourism Destination

In light of the renewed connection, the Kenyan government is expected to take proactive steps in marketing the region as an ideal travel destination. The proximity of Mombasa to renowned wildlife reserves like Tsavo National Park, along with the cultural experiences available in the city, makes it an attractive option for both adventure travelers and luxury seekers alike. This emphasis on tourism development will likely inspire more investments in local infrastructure, further improving the overall travel experience in the region.

Key Takeaways:

  • TUI Fly’s return to Mombasa strengthens Kenya’s tourism sector by improving European connectivity.
  • Direct flights from major European cities will enhance access to Kenya’s coastal regions, attracting more visitors.
  • Tourism and hospitality industries in Kenya are expected to benefit economically from the increased influx of international travelers.
  • Post-pandemic recovery efforts are bolstered as direct international connections are re-established.
  • European travelers will have greater ease in accessing Mombasa, expanding their travel options.

The return of TUI Fly not only helps Kenya’s tourism industry but also signifies the broader trend of recovery in global travel post-pandemic. As the demand for travel to African destinations increases, Kenya stands to benefit from being a preferred destination for European tourists looking to explore new and culturally rich regions. Increased flight connections also contribute to greater global interconnectivity, making it easier for travelers from various continents to visit emerging destinations in East Africa.

12 Days to AirAsia’s Inaugural Flight

As AirAsia’s inaugural flight to Nairobi approaches, excitement is reaching a fever pitch, and for good reasons! Kenya is not only the first African country that AirAsia will fly to, but also the gateway to a groundbreaking connection between the continents of Africa and Asia.

To commemorate this historic event, AirAsia is launching a massive week-long sale, offering unbeatable deals on flights to a wide range of destinations.

AirAsia BIG SALE is back !

Booking period:  now until 10th November 2024.

Travel period: 21st April to 28th March

Log on to your agency portal account here and BOOK NOW!

Click here for a fly-thru connections list for your reference.

Our Kenyan office, the first in Africa, is now open for business. Visit us Monday to Saturday for tailored assistance.

You can also reach us at +254 113 000 333 or reservations@airasiaafrica.com for more information.

Happy selling!

New Coast Tourism Circuit Launched to Boost Visitor Numbers

A new Coast Tourism circuit in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has been launched.

The initiative intends to create a robust National, County governments and private sector strategy to increase the number of tourists. It will involve rigorous marketing of available destinations both locally and internationally, besides creating more appealing packages.

During the launch CS Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano said the move will involve rigorous marketing and resources mobilisation by all stakeholders. “We want to be more organized, we are going to address issues and come up with a unified work plan, “said CS Miano. She said the country had been hard hit by COVID 19 leading to low numbers of visitors.

The CS said the industry has since recovered and the ministry is targeting 2.5 m visitors in 2024. The target is to reach 3 million by 2026 and 5 million by the year 2027. “Tourism is the biggest earner of foreign currency, we want to train our youths to become goodwill ambassadors, their innovation and creativity will drive the industry growth, “said the CS.

The CS later paid a courtesy call to Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Shariff Nassir CS Miano said the partnership with Mombasa was very crucial as the county was a top tourism destination. “We look forward to having a robust interaction and have results through an increase in the number of tourists, “said Miano.

The Governor said the county intends to put up more development at Mama Ngina park and urged the national government to revert it to county management. He said the new partnership will increase the number of tourists visiting Mombasa as a top destination. He said the newly launched circuit will bring together teams from different counties to come up with a unified strategy.

Transforming Air Travel Accessibility In East Africa

Amidst the sun-kissed shores of Mombasa, Kenya, the 19th Meeting of the East African Community (EAC) Sectoral Council on Transport, Communications, and Meteorology is in full swing, with a pivotal focus on liberalizing the Upper Airspace and driving down airfares across the region.

The agenda spans discussions on the status of crucial regional initiatives encompassing railways, roads, maritime, communications, and meteorology sub-sectors.

In a momentous address during the inaugural session on Tuesday, Hon. Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth, the EAC Deputy Secretary General overseeing Infrastructure, Productive, Social, and Political Sectors, underscored the Community’s strides towards a harmonized airspace.

The completion of Phase One marks a landmark achievement, paving the way for the interoperability of air navigation systems within the region.

Embracing the liberalization of air transport services within the EAC heralds a new era where national carriers can traverse the region with enhanced freedom.

However, despite the potential advantages of air travel in East Africa, exorbitant airfares pose a formidable barrier, with routes like Nairobi to Entebbe, Nairobi to Kigali, and Nairobi to Dar es Salaam ranking among the costliest globally per seat.

The financial turbulence of high airfares

A staggering 43% of air ticket prices in the EAC are attributed to regulatory charges, taxes, landing fees, and other levies, with regulatory fees alone accounting for up to 24% of the total cost.

The prohibitive pricing not only dissuades potential travelers but also hampers economic growth, contributing to the region’s high cost of conducting business.

Insights gleaned from a study by the African Development Bank underscore the deterrent effect of elevated ticket prices, dissuading nearly 30% of prospective air passengers in the region.

Experts advocate for the removal of tariffs to potentially reduce air transport costs to below $100 per route, fostering increased connectivity and economic vitality

Quantitative analyses reveal the transformative power of liberalization, with projections indicating a 9% reduction in average fares and a substantial 41% uptick in flight frequencies, stimulating heightened passenger demand.

The envisioned liberalization among EAC member states holds the promise of generating over 46,000 jobs and injecting a significant US$202.1 million annually into the GDP.

Hon. Ariik, standing in for EAC Secretary General Hon. Veronica Nduva, emphasizes the urgency of advancing the remaining phases to fully liberalize the air transport sector.

Acknowledging ongoing infrastructure enhancements at various airports, including international hubs in Hoima, Dodoma, Bugesera, Melchior Ndadaye, Juba, and N’djili, he champions South Sudan’s strides in aviation legislation as a model for regional progress

While applauding the momentum towards reduced airfares, Hon. Ariik advocates for broader participation in the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) to streamline intra-continental travel.

With only three regional countries currently part of SAATM, he calls upon all nations to expedite their inclusion in this pivotal initiative, poised to revolutionize air travel dynamics across the continent.

Source: Newslex Point

Sabre and TAP Air Portugal expand distribution agreement, enabling access to NDC content for travel agents and travel buyers

Sabre (NASDAQ: SABR) and TAP Air Portugal have expanded their distribution agreement to include NDC content access for travel agents. Sabre-connected agents can now request activation to book TAP Air Portugal’s NDC offers alongside traditional EDIFACT content through Sabre’s travel marketplace. The content will be accessible via Sabre’s Offer and Order APIs, Sabre Red 360, and GetThere. This expansion strengthens their existing partnership and aligns with the industry’s move towards modern airline retailing, enabling more personalized travel experiences. Thousands of Sabre-connected agencies across 150+ countries can now access NDC content through the Sabre GDS.

10/30/2024 – 08:30 AM

SOUTHLAKE, Texas and LISBON, Portugal, Oct. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading software and technology provider in travel, and TAP Air Portugal, the main Portuguese airline, today announced an expanded distribution agreement. Sabre-connected travel agents can immediately start placing activation requests for NDC offers. Once activated, they can book TAP Air Portugal evolving NDC offers alongside the airline’s traditional EDIFACT content.

“We are excited to deepen our collaboration with Sabre to provide our customers with a seamless and modern booking experience,” said Justin Jovignot, Director Distribution and Commercial Strategy at TAP Air Portugal. “Sabre’s extensive network offers a valuable opportunity to make our NDC content available to travel agents and travelers across the globe. We recognize the vital role that travel agents play in our success, and we are dedicated to equipping them with the tools they need to deliver exceptional service.”

Sabre-connected travel agents can start placing activation requests to shop, book, and service TAP Air Portugal’s NDC offers. These offers will sit alongside traditional content in Sabre’s travel marketplace, providing travel agents with a comprehensive range of options to best serve their customers. Travel agents will be able to access this content through Sabre’s Offer and Order APIs, the agency point-of-sale solution, Sabre Red 360, and the corporate booking tool, GetThere.

“Sabre’s leading travel marketplace seamlessly integrates a wide range of offers from both traditional and new sources, including NDC,” said Alessandro Ciancimino, Vice President, Airline Distribution, EMEA at Sabre Travel Solutions. “This agreement with TAP Air Portugal demonstrates our commitment to equipping travel agents with the multi-source content they way through the Sabre’s GDS to deliver enhanced travel experiences for their clients and improve their operational efficiency.”

The agreement highlights the travel industry’s shift towards modern airline retailing and NDC, which allows airlines to better customize their offerings and provide travelers with more personalized experiences. The renewed agreement strengthens on a long-standing relationship between Sabre and TAP Air Portugal.

Thousands of Sabre-connected agencies in more than 150 countries around the world are already shopping, booking, and servicing NDC content through the Sabre GDS.

About Sabre

Sabre Corporation is a software and technology company that takes on the biggest opportunities and solves the most complex challenges in travel. The Company connects travel suppliers and buyers around the globe and across the ecosystem through innovative products and next-generation technology solutions. Sabre harnesses speed, scale and insights to build tomorrow’s technology today – empowering airlines, hoteliers, agencies and other partners to retail, distribute and fulfill travel worldwide. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world. For more information visit www.sabre.com.

About TAP Air Portugal

TAP is Portugal’s leading airline and is a member of Star Alliance since 2005. Flying since 1945, TAP Air Portugal has its hub in Lisbon, a privileged access platform in Europe, at the crossroads with Africa, North, Central, and South America.

TAP Air Portugal is the world’s leading airline between Europe and Brazil. TAP offers more than 1,250 weekly flights to 85 cities in 30 countries through its network of destinations, which includes 6 airports in Portugal, 9 in North America, 14 in Central and South America, 13 in Africa and 43 in Europe (in addition to Portugal).

TAP has made a clear commitment to modernizing its fleet and offering the best product in the sector to its customers. The Portuguese airline operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with all of Airbus’ next generation NEO aircraft: A320neo, A321neo, A321LR, and A330neo, with superior efficiency and reduced emission levels. TAP also operates 19 Embraer aircraft in its regional fleet (TAP Express).

TAP is ranked by Airline Ratings to be one of the 25 safest airlines in the world.

TAP Air Portugal has been recognized and awarded as Europe’s Leading Airline to Africa, as well as Europe’s Leading Airline to South America by the World Travel Awards in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

Source: Sabre

Passenger survey highlights need for convenience and technology

nology

Wednesday 30th October 2024 — 4 min read

IATA released the results of its 2024 Global Passenger Survey, revealing that travelers continue to prioritize convenience and speed. For a smoother travel experience, they are eager to use biometric identification and complete some travel processes before reaching the airport.

web travelers-walking-with-luggage-at-airport - Credit: Credit izusek iStock - 1477131540

“Passengers want flexibility and transparency when planning and booking travel, plus speed and convenience at the airport. More are embracing biometrics, digital wallets, and off-airport processes to make it happen,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Safety, and Security.

Planning, Booking and Payment

  • 68% said proximity to the airport was their top priority when selecting their departure airport, followed by minimizing total travel time ( 33% ) and getting the best ticket price ( 25% ).
  • 71% said they book travel online or via a mobile app, with 53% preferring to use the airline’s website / app and only 16% preferring human interaction.
  • 32% said they wanted to have all travel information consolidated in one place during the pre-travel process.
  • 79% prefer to pay for travel with a credit or debit card, followed by digital wallets at 20%, and instant payment solutions, such as IATA Pay, at 7%.
  • Convenience was the main reason passengers chose a particular payment method ( 70% ), followed by benefits ( 39% ) and security ( 33% ).

Passengers prioritize convenience in the planning, booking, and payment phase of travel. For this convenience, they may accept some higher costs, and they are increasingly willing to use technologies, such as digital wallets. IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative is helping airlines to deliver greater customer centricity based on the foundational work of New Distribution Capability and the conversion to Offers and Orders. The Airline Retailing Maturity Index supports airlines in their distribution and payment transformation.

“Technology continues to change the way people plan, book and pay for travel. Travelers expect the same conveniences when shopping for travel that they get in any other online shopping experience. That means simplicity, clarity, and with options to meet their preferences while keeping their data secure. The industry is stepping up to meet the demand for greater customer centricity through IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative. Passengers will experience its positive impact progressively in the very near future,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.

Airport

  • 70% said they want to reach their boarding gate in 30 minutes or less when traveling with just a carry-on; 74% expect it to take no longer than 45 minutes with a checked bag.
  • 85% said they are willing to share immigration data i.e. passport, visa with authorities before departure to speed up airport process. And 89% are interested in a trusted traveler program to expedite security screening.
  • 45% said immigration procedures should be completed before reaching the airport, and 36% feel the same about check-in. Additionally, 70% of passengers said they’d be more likely to check-in a bag if they could do so in advance.
  • 46% of travelers experienced airport processes using biometric identification. The highest usage is seen at entry and exit immigration checkpoints ( 43% ). 84% of users were satisfied. And 75% prefer using biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes.
  • 50% said they are concerned about data protection and 39% would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of their data’s security.

IATA’s One ID initiative is helping the industry to respond to traveler desires for faster processes and less hassle on the way to their aircraft, securely powered by biometrics and digital identity.

“The clear message from travelers is that they expect to board their planes faster with technology and smarter processes beginning well before they reach the airport. And the good news is that we are making this happen. Already travelers can arrive at the airport ready to fly with admissibility checks completed. And biometrics and digital identity can deliver a paperless experience once at the airport. That’s great for passengers. Importantly, the greater efficiency will help airport infrastructure to better cope with the growth in passenger numbers, helping to make the business case for adopting these new technologies and processes even more compelling,” said Careen.

Digital solutions are preferred by younger generations

Under-25s are considerably more proactive in using technology to improve their travel but want assurances on security.

  • 51% would choose digital wallets for payment, far above the global average of 20%.
  • 90% expressed interest in using a smartphone with a digital wallet, passport, and loyalty cards for booking, payment, and airport navigation, surpassing the global average of 77%.
  • 48% prefer biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes, compared with 43% of those aged 56-75.
  • 50% of under-25s would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of data security, versus the global average of 39%.

Draft continental strategy on free movement developed

Free Movement of Persons is an integral part of the African integration and along with the African Passport is one of the flagship projects of Agenda 2063.

Pursuant to this goal of integration, in January 2018 the Protocol to the Treaty establishing the African Economic Community relating to free movement of persons, right of residence and right of establishment was adopted by the AU Assembly. This was followed in March 2018 with the Agreement Establishing the African Free Trade Area, the Protocol on Trade in Goods, the Protocol on Trade in Services and the Protocol on Rules and Procedures on the Settlement of Disputes.

As a follow up to this, the African Union (AU) and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) have developed a draft joint continental strategy to accelerate the Right of Entry for the Protocol to the treaty establishing the African Economic Communities relating to the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment. The strategy aims to ensure that RECs and Member States popularise and promote the adopted African Passport as one of the key mechanisms through which free movement of persons will be realised.

The implementation of the Protocol will evolve through three phases namely, right of entry, right of residence and right of establishment and the introduction of the African passport adopted during the February 2019 AU Summit, will act as a major catalyst for the Protocol especially the right of entry, according to AU Commissioner for Political Affairs Ms. Minata Samate Cessouma.

33 Member States have so far signed the protocol, and 4 ratifications have been deposited by Rwanda, Niger, Mali and Sao Tome and Principe. Technical specifications of the African Passport were also developed in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), RECs and Member States.

Dubai and Hilton partner to elevate tourism

In a significant move to elevate Dubai’s global tourism appeal, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Hilton have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focusing on enhancing visibility and refining service excellence in the city’s hospitality sector. This partnership aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda, D33, aimed at positioning Dubai as a top destination for both leisure and business, and further exemplifies DET and Hilton’s commitment to creating premium experiences for international visitors.

The MoU establishes a foundation for joint marketing initiatives, emphasising Dubai’s unique offerings through global advertising campaigns and social media. By incorporating seasonal travel packages, the partnership will showcase Dubai’s signature attractions while offering Hilton Honors loyalty program members exclusive Dubai experiences. Hilton, with over 195 million Honors members worldwide, will leverage DET’s resources, particularly in team training offered through Dubai College of Tourism. This will ensure Hilton staff are skilled in cultural awareness and customer service, elevating the standard of guest experiences throughout Dubai.

His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), highlighted the role of Hilton in Dubai’s tourism evolution, emphasising that this MoU will bolster Dubai’s presence on the world stage while enhancing service quality within the city. This collaboration exemplifies Dubai’s culture of public-private partnership and strengthens the city’s tourism ecosystem. Through this partnership, more global travellers are expected to discover Dubai’s offerings, fostering advocacy and encouraging repeat visits.

Hilton, a global hospitality leader with 24 properties across nine brands in Dubai, will bring its extensive industry expertise to this strategic partnership. Guy Hutchinson, Hilton’s President for the Middle East and Africa, commended Dubai’s leadership in tourism innovation and Hilton’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s vision for unmatched hospitality. Hilton looks forward to participating in DET’s training programs to cultivate the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Dubai’s tourism sector has shown impressive growth, with the city recording a 7.5% increase in international visitors from January to August 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, when a record 17.15 million overnight visitors were welcomed. The hotel industry has achieved an average occupancy rate of 76.2% this year, reflecting Dubai’s sustained popularity as a premier travel destination. The DET-Hilton partnership is poised to enhance Dubai’s hospitality standards, supporting Dubai’s position as a global tourism leader.

Why Travel Insurance is a lifesaver against unforeseen pitfalls

Before you pack your bags for your next trip, take a moment to plan and acquire the right travel insurance.

In Summary

  • Road trips have become a popular weekend activity for individuals and friends, who often drive to neighbouring counties and towns in countries like Uganda and Tanzania.
  • Kenyan companies have capitalised on these developments by adapting travel products that cater to various market groups.

In recent times, significant investments in road, railway, and air transport have revolutionised mobility across East Africa.

Kenyan companies have capitalised on these developments by adapting travel products that cater to various market groups.

Road trips have become a popular weekend activity for individuals and friends, who often drive to neighbouring counties and towns in countries like Uganda and Tanzania.

Families now routinely plan holidays well in advance, especially to popular coastal regions like Mombasa and Diani, thanks to the convenience provided by the Madaraka Express railway service and the modernization of the Nairobi-Mombasa road.

ADVERTISING

Additionally, annual religious events have also spurred inter-regional travel, with Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda benefiting greatly from this.

For instance, Uganda’s Martyr’s Day attracts pilgrims from across the region to Namugongo, while the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre is a popular visit destination for many Kenyans.

Furthermore, the visa-free agreement between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda has facilitated extended stays for Kenyans across the region, whether for business, tourism, or education.

The completion of the 500-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway has also opened up tourist resort cities such as Kilifi and Lamu, enhancing local tourism

Looking into the future, discussions to open up Africa’s 54-country borders courtesy of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area are expected to revolutionise travel at an unprecedented scale, expanding travel bucket lists and tourism numbers across different countries.

This surge in travel underscores the importance of travel insurance.

It’s often seen as an unnecessary expense, but it can be a lifesaver in case of unforeseen circumstances.

It provides a financial shield, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about the loss emanating from travel-related potential risks.

With coverage spanning from medical expenses, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, you have the assurance of protection in the event of unforeseen occurrences.

One of the lesser-emphasised benefits of travel insurance is the 24/7 assistance service, which can help with lost passports, legal matters, or other emergencies, and even offer third-party aid to make your travel smoother and more enjoyable.

This service ensures that travellers have access to support at any time, no matter where they are in the world.

For instance, if you misplace your passport, the assistance service can guide you through the process of obtaining a replacement quickly.

In case of legal issues, they can provide advice or connect you with local legal experts.

Additionally, travel insurance can assist one in taking care of medical emergencies by coordinating with local healthcare providers and arranging for necessary treatments.

Travel activities like hiking, skiing, or scuba diving increase the risk of accidents.

Travel insurance also provides peace of mind by reducing anxiety and stress levels, allowing travellers to enjoy their journey knowing they are protected against anticipated risks.

It also ensures unexpected costs don’t derail your travel plans and budget.

Remember the specific coverage offered by travel insurance policies can vary greatly.

It’s essential to read the policy carefully and choose one that aligns with your travel plans and needs.

Before you pack your bags for your next trip, take a moment to plan and acquire the right travel insurance.