Planning a summer trip to Europe? If Germany’s your gateway, there’s a big visa rule change coming.
From July 1, travellers applying for a Schengen visa through Germany will no longer be able to appeal if their application is rejected. That’s because Germany’s Federal Foreign Office is scrapping the remonstration process worldwide – a procedure that previously let rejected applicants ask for a second look.
What’s changing?
Until now, anyone whose visa was denied could submit a free written appeal within 30 days – known as a remonstration. But following a successful trial run last year, German authorities are now ending this system permanently.
Instead of appealing, rejected applicants will now need to submit a brand-new visa application if they want to try again.
Why the change?
According to German officials, the goal is to speed up visa processing times and improve efficiency. By removing the remonstration stage, visa staff have been able to focus on handling new applications – resulting in faster turnaround and more approvals overall.
What does this mean for travellers?
If you’re applying through a German consulate after July 1, it’s more important than ever to get your application right the first time. Missing documents or unclear travel plans could mean starting the process from scratch.
But there are still options.
Travellers can apply for a Schengen visa through any member country – not just Germany – as long as they meet the rules: typically, that means entering through or spending the most time in the country you apply through.
Reminder: What is a Schengen visa?
A Schengen visa allows non-EU citizens to travel freely for up to 90 days in a 180-day period across the Schengen Area, which includes 27 European countries such as Germany, France, Italy and Spain.
Final boarding call for appeals
Germany’s visa shift might be a change in routine, but it’s not a dead end for travellers. Just make sure your documents are in order and plan ahead – especially if Germany is your chosen gateway to Europe.
It’s out with the old red tape, and in with a fresh stamp of approval – if you play your paperwork right. The question is: will other EU countries start adopting similar policies?
ASKY Airlines Kenya has announced a transformative partnership with the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), aimed at increasing women’s participation in the aviation industry across the continent. The partnership was unveiled as part of ASKY’s 15th anniversary celebrations, marking the occasion with a legacy initiative that seeks to empower the next generation of female aviators, engineers, and industry leaders.
Despite significant growth in the global aviation industry, women remain drastically underrepresented, particularly in technical and leadership roles. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), women make up just 4.1% of pilots, less than 3% of aircraft maintenance engineers, and under 10% of airline executives in Africa.
“Through this partnership, we aim to change that narrative by addressing the structural and cultural barriers that limit women’s access to careers in aviation,” said a spokesperson for ASKY Airlines Kenya. “This is not just a corporate social responsibility effort — it’s an investment in the future of the industry.”
The ASKY–FAWE partnership focuses on five strategic objectives designed to foster gender inclusion and build capacity for women in aviation-related fields, particularly aeronautics:
Promoting Gender Inclusion: The program will spotlight success stories of women in aviation while identifying and addressing the barriers they face, from gender bias to limited access to technical education.
Mentorship Initiatives: Female students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses in Sub-Saharan Africa will be connected with established professionals in aviation, opening doors to guidance, networks, and career pathways.
Policy Advocacy: The partnership will facilitate dialogue with governments, industry regulators, and educational stakeholders to develop policies that create a more inclusive aviation ecosystem.
Capacity Building: FAWE and ASKY will work closely with universities, aviation schools, and technical training institutions to support curriculum development and access for female learners.
Industry Collaboration: By encouraging partnerships among airlines, aerospace manufacturers, and aviation institutions, the initiative seeks to create more internships, scholarships, and job placements for women.
This alliance is seen as a game-changer for aviation in Africa, offering an unprecedented platform to engage stakeholders across the education and aviation sectors in a unified push for gender parity.
FAWE Executive Director, Dr. Mary Goretti Nakabugo, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “For Africa to truly unlock its economic potential, we must ensure that women are fully included in high-growth sectors like aviation. This partnership with ASKY Airlines allows us to drive structural change through education, mentorship, and opportunity.”
As ASKY Airlines celebrates 15 years of excellence in connecting Africa, this initiative will serve as a cornerstone for the airline’s enduring impact, one that not only opens the skies to more African women but also redefines what inclusive growth in the aviation sector can look like.
The first phase of the program is expected to launch later this year, with pilot activities in Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, and Togo, key markets in ASKY’s pan-African network.
The Karibu-KiliFair 2025, East Africa’s largest tourism fair, is set to take place from June 6–8 at the Prisons Grounds in Arusha Region, bringing together tourism stakeholders from across the globe to showcase Tanzania as a premier destination for both leisure and business travel.
Briefing the media over the weekend, Managing Director of KiliFair Promotions Mr Dominic Shoo, described the Karibu-KiliFair (KKF) as East Africa’s flagship tourism expo, born from the merger of two major tourism fairs in Tanzania.
This year’s event is expected to host over 500 exhibitors from 13 countries, more than 800 registered travel agents from 40+ countries and attract approximately 15,000 tourism and travel enthusiasts.
“Karibu-KiliFair is once again the undisputed largest and most important tourism expo in Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Mr Shoo.
“Our theme, ‘Where Business Meets Wildlife’, continues to set us apart globally. Tanzania remains a top MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) destination, one of the few places where business events seamlessly blend with iconic wildlife experiences.”
He said that the fair consistently delivers a powerful marketing platform not only for Arusha and Kilimanjaro but for Tanzania as a whole.
Co-Managing Director Mr Tom Kunkler praised the Tanzanian government, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, for prioritising the tourism sector through the development of new attractions, national parks and investor incentives.
He said that Tanzania remains a globally recognised destination for nature-based tourism, a highly competitive market segment in East Africa. Representing the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), Principal Conservation Officer – Tourism, Ms Eunice Msangi, applauded KiliFair Promotions for its commitment to promoting Tanzania’s tourism sector.
“We invite all stakeholders and members of the public to attend Karibu-KiliFair 2025 to learn more about conservation and tourism. TANAPA will be there to showcase our national parks, share investment opportunities and provide detailed information about all protected areas,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of CRDB Bank, Mr Emmanuel Kafui, Zonal Business Manager for the Northern Zone, reiterated the bank’s support for the tourism sector.
“As tourism continues to grow rapidly, CRDB Bank is committed to supporting clients in the sector,” he said.
“We offer tent loans for accommodation facilities ranging from 1m/- to 500m/-, with no collateral required.”
The Kenya Embassy in Southeast Asia has issued a new travel advisory with important updates for Kenyan citizens planning to visit the Royal Kingdom of Cambodia.
The advisory, announced on May 29 by the embassy in Bangkok, explains new entry protocols that encourage Kenyans across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam, to take note of the changes.
According to information from the Royal Government of Cambodia, the country has lifted all COVID-19-related health restrictions for travellers.“We write to convey the following information from the Royal Cambodia Government on travellers to the Kingdom of Cambodia;
“All health requirements related to COVID-19, including testing, quarantine, and other associated measures have been vacated,” the notice indicated.
This means that incoming visitors will no longer be required to undergo testing, quarantine, or comply with any other pandemic-related health measures.
Update on Visa application through the Embassy
Additionally, Kenyans travelling to Cambodia have been advised to apply for their visas through the government’s official online e-Visa platform at https://www.evisa.gov.kh.
Further, travellers can now complete Cambodia’s e-arrival card either before departure or upon arrival at any international border checkpoint within the country.
According to the embassy, the digitised form helps speed up immigration procedures and enhances traveller convenience.
“Travellers may conveniently apply for a visa to enter the Kingdom of Cambodia through the online e-Visa system of the government at https://www.evisa.gov.kh.
“Travellers may complete the e-arrival card either prior to or upon arrival at an international border checkpoint of Cambodia,” added the notice.
Moreover, the Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok has encouraged all Kenyan nationals in the region to familiarise themselves with the new updates and share the information with fellow travellers.
“The Embassy requests that the information be shared with all Kenyans in Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam for reference in case you are travelling to Cambodia,” stated the embassy.
US New Visa Regulations
The US is among the latest countries to enforce new visa rules affecting Kenyans.
The American government has stepped up its screening of visa applicants by checking social media posts for any content that criticises the United States or Israel.
This move, ordered by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, aims to prevent certain students, including Kenyans, from entering the country.
The directive specifically targets students who previously held visas between October 7, 2023, and August 31, 2024, and those whose visas have been revoked during this period.
Travel agents and tourism professionals from across Kenya converged at the Sarova Panafric Hotel for the two-day renowned Nairobi Spotlight Event, a key gathering that has been instrumental in fostering connections across the travel industry since its inception in 2005. Among the attendees were Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) members from the Coast and Kisumu regions, who joined their Nairobi counterparts for a day filled with meaningful engagements and market insights.
The event brought together a diverse network of travel and tourism stakeholders, including travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, hotels, and global travel brands, all united by a common goal – to strengthen business ties and explore emerging opportunities in a rapidly evolving travel landscape.
Launch of 2025 Nairobi Spotlight at Sarova Panafric
KATA Chairman, Dr. Joseph Kithitu, lauded the efforts of event founder Derek Houston and his dedicated team, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to keeping the Spotlight platform alive and impactful over the past two decades.
Derek Houston
“For 20 years, this event has provided a valuable bridge between international travel brands and the Kenyan travel trade,” Dr. Kithitu said in his remarks. “As we work toward rebuilding and expanding travel, such engagements reaffirm the strength, unity, and resilience of our industry.”
KATA Exhibiting at Nairobi Spotlight
The Nairobi Spotlight Event is part of a larger regional initiative that seeks to connect African travel agents with global tourism suppliers through a series of B2B networking events held in major cities. Attendees at the Nairobi edition had the opportunity to interact with representatives from leading destinations, hotel groups, airline partners, and travel tech companies.
KATA Members
For KATA members, particularly those who travelled from outside the capital, the event was a chance not only to strengthen their professional networks but also to engage with international partners and gain insights into new travel products and services.
“KATA is proud to see our members actively participating in platforms that shape the future of travel,” said KATA Coast region Director, Patrick Kamanga. “This kind of interaction enhances knowledge sharing, fosters innovation, and positions Kenyan travel agents as strategic partners in the global tourism value chain.”
As the travel industry continues to recover and adapt to changing consumer trends and global demands, events like the Nairobi Spotlight serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continued dialogue within the sector.
With a renewed sense of optimism and a growing focus on regional and international partnerships, the Kenyan travel trade community left the event energized and ready to build on the connections made, a testament to the enduring value of the Spotlight series in shaping the future of tourism in the region.
In a move set to enhance regional air travel, Tanzanian regional carrier Flightlink has announced the introduction of two new routes connecting Kenya and Tanzania. The airline will now operate flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Arusha and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Zanzibar, beginning 15th June 2025.
New Route: Nairobi- Wilson to Arusha
Starting 15th of June 2025, passengers can fly directly from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Arusha, one of Tanzania’s most popular entry points for safaris into the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. This route is ideal for travellers looking for a fast, no-fuss connection from Kenya’s capital to northern Tanzania. The flights are scheduled to align with morning safari departures and return times, helping reduce long road transfers and streamline your travel days.
New Route: Nairobi- Jomo Kenyatta to Zanzibar
We’re also launching flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Zanzibar. This route caters to international travellers arriving in Nairobi who are heading straight to the white, sandy beaches of Zanzibar, as well as residents of Nairobi looking for a quick island escape. With daily flights and convenient departure times, this connection makes it easier than ever to enjoy the spice island’s charm, history, and beauty.
Flightlink, which has operated in the region for over 20 years, is known for its intra-Tanzania network covering destinations such as Serengeti, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar. This marks the airline’s expansion into the Kenyan market, as it seeks to facilitate smoother cross-border air travel within East Africa.
The flights will be operated using ATR 72-500 aircraft, with schedules designed to accommodate morning safari departures and convenient connections for international arrivals. Passengers will benefit from a 23kg baggage allowance and booking systems tailored for regional travel.
As intra-African connectivity becomes increasingly important for trade and tourism, these new routes signal continued efforts by regional carriers to improve travel efficiency across borders.
For further details, visit www.flightlink.co.tz. Travel agents interested in partnering with the airline can register through this link or contact the Kenya office at marketing.kenya@flightlink.co.tz.
In a move that marks a significant step forward for the travel and tourism sector, Nicanor Sabula, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) for a three-year term.
KATA CEO, Nicanor Sabula
The appointment, announced by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano on Friday, is part of a wave of new leadership placements across various ministries aimed at strengthening service delivery and aligning institutions with the government’s broader development goals.
Mr. Sabula joins the TRA board alongside Fred Kaigua, bringing with him over two decades of industry expertise. As the CEO of KATA, a position he has held for several years, Sabula has played a pivotal role in steering the 45-year-old association through transformative milestones, including digital innovation, strategic partnerships, and robust policy advocacy on behalf of Kenya’s travel agents.
“This appointment is not only a recognition of Nicanor’s leadership but a major win for KATA and the entire travel agency sector,” said a KATA Chairman, Dr. Joseph Kithitu. “It creates a direct channel for the voice of travel agents to be heard at the regulatory level.”
The Tourism Regulatory Authority, mandated to regulate and coordinate the tourism sector in Kenya, plays a critical role in setting standards and ensuring compliance across all tourism-related services. With Sabula on the board, stakeholders anticipate greater collaboration between regulators and industry players.
His appointment comes at a time when the tourism sector is seeking to rebound and reposition itself, with a renewed focus on sustainability, innovation, and stakeholder-driven growth.
“Having a seasoned industry voice like Sabula’s at the TRA is timely,” said one KATA Member. “It reflects a commitment to grounding regulation in the realities of the market and travel trends.”
For KATA, which has represented the interests of travel agents in Kenya for 45 years, this development signifies increased influence, deeper policy engagement, and stronger positioning in national tourism development agendas.
Tanzania has impressively outperformed its goal of attracting five million tourists by 2025, welcoming 5.3 million visitors by April of that year. This accomplishment represents a seven percent increase over the original target and was reached three months ahead of the fiscal year’s end, showcasing the country’s rapid growth and rising status as a premier travel destination in Africa.
After the global disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Tanzania’s tourism sector has demonstrated exceptional resilience and recovery. This success stems from targeted promotional campaigns, infrastructure enhancements, and strategic collaborations that have effectively drawn visitors from across the globe, fueling steady increases in both tourist numbers and revenue.
A major driver behind this surge is the growing influx of travelers from China. In the current fiscal year, approximately seventy-one thousand tourists from the Far East journeyed to Tanzania, encouraged in part by a popular travel documentary titled Amazing Tanzania. The film, which features well-known Chinese actors, vividly portrays Tanzania’s breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, significantly boosting interest and travel bookings among Chinese audiences.
India also remains a crucial source market for Tanzania’s tourism. In 2024 alone, over sixty-three thousand Indian tourists visited the country, with demand remaining strong as bookings for upcoming years, including 2026 through 2028, continue to fill rapidly. This indicates a growing confidence in Tanzania’s travel offerings and its appeal as a long-term destination.
From an economic perspective, tourism remains a cornerstone of Tanzania’s growth strategy. Revenues have surged from USD 1.3 billion in 2021 to more than USD 3.9 billion in 2024. Key institutions such as Tanzania National Park (TANAPA), Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism’s digital platforms have collectively generated 912.9 billion Tanzanian shillings, surpassing ninety-four percent of the annual revenue target well before the fiscal year’s close.
To sustain this momentum, Tanzania continues to actively promote its attractions through partnerships with international airlines, hosting high-profile sporting events, producing engaging travel documentaries, and organizing special cultural festivities. These efforts broaden the country’s appeal and attract a diverse range of international visitors.
In a prestigious recognition of its growing prominence, Tanzania will host the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA) gala ceremony in Dar es Salaam, the commercial hub. Scheduled for June 28, 2025, at the Johari Rotana Hotel, this event will honor leading tourism operators from across Africa and the Indian Ocean region, further highlighting Tanzania’s key role in the continent’s travel industry.
Policy reforms have also contributed to the sector’s vitality. Unnecessary fees and tariffs that previously posed challenges for investors, tour operators, and other stakeholders have been eliminated. For example, park entry fees for licensed tour guides have been removed, provided they hold official accreditation. These measures reduce operational costs and enhance the visitor experience, fostering industry growth.
Tanzania’s remarkable achievements reinforce its status as a top-tier African tourism destination. The country’s abundant natural beauty—from iconic national parks and wildlife reserves to vibrant cultural sites—continues to captivate travelers worldwide. This sustained tourism expansion not only bolsters the national economy but also elevates Tanzania’s global reputation.
Looking forward, Tanzania is committed to sustainable tourism that balances economic development with environmental stewardship and community welfare. This approach ensures that its unique heritage is preserved for future generations while maintaining unforgettable experiences for visitors.
In summary, Tanzania’s early surpassing of its five million tourist goal marks a significant milestone. Backed by innovative marketing, strong international demand, and progressive reforms, the nation is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory and solidify its place as one of Africa’s most sought-after travel destinations in the coming years.
The Kenya Simbas have received a major boost ahead of their Rugby World Cup qualification campaign, following the unveiling of Kenya Airways as their official sponsor. The partnership, valued at Ksh15 million in kind, was officially announced during a ceremony attended by key stakeholders from the Kenya Rugby Union and Kenya Airways.
The sponsorship will play a key role in easing the team’s travel logistics as they begin preparations for the global qualifiers. The Simbas are set to leave for a three-week training camp in South Africa next week before returning home and later heading to Uganda on July 3rd for the Rugby World Cup qualifying matches.
KRU CEO Thomas Odundo, speaking during the launch, expressed the union’s gratitude. “Thank you very much on behalf of KRU,” he said, acknowledging the critical role the national carrier will play in supporting the Simbas’ mission.
KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, saying, “KQ has been with KRU in the past and we are glad to have you back. It’s an integral sponsorship having an airline as a partner as travel costs are largely reduced. As the Simbas begin their World Cup qualification journey, this is a big step up. We are very grateful and we hope the partnership will extend to other teams like the U20, Shujaa, and the Lionnesses.”
Kenya Airways’ Chief Commercial and Customer Officer Julius Thairu reaffirmed the airline’s commitment, stating, “We are back. On behalf of our CEO, we are happy and proud to be part of the Simbas’ journey as they seek a place in the World Cup. We not only focus on sponsorship but also on socioeconomic development. There is a lot of talent in Kenya, and as a brand, we would like to help nurture and showcase it. We are going to walk this journey together—this is just a start, and we are also looking forward to supporting the other national teams.”
Simbas captain George Nyambua spoke on behalf of the team, expressing deep appreciation for the partnership. “We really want to say thank you. This sponsorship will have a big impact on our qualification journey. We believe we are going to qualify and make you proud.”
With renewed support and a strong sense of belief, the Simbas now set their sights on making history as they prepare for the World Cup qualification.
Kenya is set to become the epicenter of Africa’s tourism renaissance as it prepares to host over 6,500 delegates from 40 countries at the 15th edition of the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKT).
Set to take place from October 1–3, 2025, the event is poised to enhance intra-African collaboration and sustainable growth as the driving forces behind the continent’s tourism sector.
This year’s expo, themed Sustainable Tourism Growth: Unlocking Africa’s Potential marks a significant milestone in the region’s tourism journey. It promises to be the most expansive and inclusive edition.
The 2025 edition will convene over 200 high-quality international buyers and 400 exhibitors for three days of intensive networking, investment discussions, and business-to-business engagements. A major highlight will be the integration of the Africa Tourism Investment Forum (ATIF), creating one of the continent’s most comprehensive tourism trade platforms.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement event held on Monday at Nairobi Hotel, State Department of Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa underscored the expo’s core role in shaping Africa’s tourism Sector.
“MKTE 2025 is not just a Kenyan celebration; it is a continental milestone,” said PS Ololtuaa, adding, “Over the past 15 years, this platform has evolved into a catalyst for regional tourism transformation. It is imperative that this year, we make it a pan-African endeavour.”
He emphasized that MKTE’s ability to facilitate regional cooperation, spur new market linkages and expose local stakeholders to global travel trends has been instrumental in accelerating the sector’s post-pandemic recovery.
Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa
“With Africa emerging as one of the fastest-growing tourism regions globally, we must adopt collaborative approaches that leverage our shared strengths while addressing common vulnerabilities,” he added.
PS Ololtuaa urged tourism stakeholders to move beyond competition and embrace cross-border synergies.
“We must see our neighbours not as rivals but as partners in a shared vision. Tourism remains a critical pillar of our economies, and by working together, we can unlock Africa’s true potential,” he said.
Concurrently, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chairman Francis Gichaba described the 15th anniversary as a reflective point for Kenya’s tourism leadership.
“For 15 years, MKTE has demonstrated how Kenya leads not just in safari experiences but in thought leadership on sustainable tourism,” said Gichaba, adding that this year’s expo will showcase Kenya’s commitment to building a resilient tourism sector that grows with and for Africa.
Making her remarks, Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei noted that sustainability and innovation will be at the heart of the event.
She revealed that MKTE 2025 will implement a refined digital matchmaking system, designed to foster more meaningful and productive business connections between exhibitors and buyers.
“Building on the success of MKTE 2024, which attracted 4,000 delegates and facilitated thousands of business meetings, we are raising the bar in 2025,” said Chepkemei.
Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei
“We are embedding technology and sustainability into every aspect of the expo to ensure it not only delivers value to participants but also reflects responsible event management practices,” she added.
Additionally, Chepkemei stated that MKTE 2025 is more than an event describing it as a movement and a call for Africa to lead, innovate and thrive together in tourism.
Kenya’s renewed focus on intra-African partnerships comes at a crucial time. According to 2024 tourism data, African countries collectively contributed 40.8 percent of international tourist arrivals to Kenya, reaffirming the continent’s growing importance as both a source market and a destination for intra-African travel.
Industry players have welcomed the integration of ATIF into this year’s expo, noting that access to investment remains one of the biggest challenges facing the sector, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula
With global travel trends increasingly favouring cultural authenticity and environmental responsibility, Africa’s tourism sector is well-positioned for robust growth. The World Travel and Tourism Council projects that the continent’s tourism industry could grow at a rate of 6.5 percent annually over the next decade, with a potential total contribution of US$350 billion.
As Kenya prepares to host this landmark edition of MKTE, stakeholders agree that the time for a united African tourism agenda is now.
