Tourism industry stakeholders have been urged to involve themselves in activities that will help preserve the environment.

Speaking on Thursday at the Bangladesh area in Mombasa after a mangrove restoration exercise, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) CEO Nicanor Sabula said the environment was a major contributor to tourism in the country.

“Tourism depends on the environment, so if we do not conserve our environment, it will simply mean that the economy will also be affected. So we will give tree planting priority, and the exercise here in Bangladesh is just the start,” said Sabula.

During the exercise, KATA and other tourism stakeholders, including Kenya Coast Tourism Association (KCTA), Jambo Jet, The Pubs, Entertainment and Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK), partnered with the community to plant over 1,000 mangrove seedlings along the Tudor Creek in Mikindani.

Speaking after the exercise, KATA Chair Patrick Kamanga said that through KATACares, the association will follow up to ensure the seedlings planted reach maturity.

“What we do as KATA is to sell air tickets; people are traveling all over the world, and that is why we decided to give back to the community. Through KATACares, we assess areas where we can support, and this year, we chose Mombasa. We will work with the community to ensure that we make a difference,” said Kamanga.

Meanwhile, Birikani Chief Sudi Hamisi commended the exercise, saying that it will not only help in achieving President William Ruto’s target of 15 billion trees by 2032 but also provide a source of livelihood for the locals.

“Apart from the government’s target and livelihoods for the locals, such exercises help in conserving the coastal environment. We know that the coastal strip was deteriorating, and that is why the Kenya Forest Service and other stakeholders came up with the idea of Beach Management Units to help in preserving it,” said Chief Khamisi.

Peter Nyongesa is the chairman of the Tulinde Mikoko self-help group based in Mikindani. The group that produces mangrove seedlings supplied the seedlings that were planted during the restoration exercise.

“The types of trees we planted today are good for the marine life. Locals here love eating crabs, and the mangrove helps in the reproduction of crabs and other fish,” said Nyongesa.

The mangrove restoration exercise, which started at 8:30 am, also saw primary school students participate in tree planting.

Jared Oguk, a teacher at St. Mary’s Comprehensive School, said involving children in such exercise prepares them to better care for the environment in the future.

“The children are the future. Involving them in such exercises shows them how the environment is conserved and teaches them how to take care of our natural resources,” said Oguk.

The exercise was part of KATA’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) aimed at improving the coastline and the coastal environment.

KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula said the association aims to plant over 20,000 mangroves in the next two years.

Source: Baraka FM

As sports tourism grows internationally, popular and less well-known towns and cities are reaping the rewards, as travellers spill over into “detour destinations”.

Expedia’s survey and research report, ‘How to win big with sports tourism’ revealed that almost 50% of travellers attending sports events chose to detour to destinations close by.  Nearly 33% of respondents chose a more well-known spot close by, 20% chose a popular destination over an hour from the sporting event, and 20% chose a less-known destination close to the sporting event.

According to Expedia, this is particularly popular among younger travellers, with 88% of 16-34-year-olds exploring destinations outside their event city, indicating a shift towards a desire to seek out new places during sports trips.

Economic impact

According to Skift, sports tourism alone was worth US$565 billion (R11 trillion) in 2023, projected to grow to US$1,33 trillion (R26 trillion) by 2032.

Expedia found that travellers for sports events exhibited high spending on basics such as the sport event tickets, airfares and accommodation, and were more likely to travel for sports events taking place over more than one day, extending their average stay to two-six days.

Sports events cultivate abundant support for dining establishments, shopping centres and retailers, sightseeing attractions, historical and cultural attractions, relaxation and wellness service providers, adventure activity providers and nightlife establishments.

Source : South Africa Travel News

Kenya Airways (KQ) and Safarilink Aviation have launched a new one-way codeshare partnership aimed at expanding their network to include nine new destinations.

The one-way partnership is designed to revolutionize the way travellers access Kenya’s world-renowned safari destinations by offeringthe convenience of a single ticket for multiple flights.

Kenya Airways’ global customers can now book their international flights and domestic safari connections on a single ticket, creating a seamless and convenient travel experience.

KQ’s extensive international network will now connect with two daily flights to key airstrips in the Maasai Mara, as well as to Amboseli, Nanyuki, and Samburu.This integration eliminates the need for separate bookings, offering a streamlined journey for tourists seeking wildlife encounters.

 

Kenya Airways and Safarilink Launch Single-Ticket Flights to 9 New Destinations

According to the airline, this partnership marks a significant step in the airline’s broader growth strategy, aimed at attracting a wider audience by offering an enhanced and more convenient product solution.“It provides a competitive edge in the market and strengthens relationships with travel trade partners,” KQ noted.

KQ Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Allan Kilavuka stated that this partnership exemplifies smart innovation, bridging Kenya Airways’ global reach with Safarilink’s expertise in last-mile connectivity to key safari destinations.

“Together, we are optimizing aircraft use, reducing ground delays, and offering our guests more flexibility and smoother journeys,” he said.“Importantly, by enhancing access to these remote airstrips, we are also empowering local communities and supporting conservation efforts, as tourism is the heartbeat of Kenya.” 

In 2024, leisure travel accounted for the largest portion of tourist arrivals in Kenya, at 44.2%, underscoring the significant demand for accessible and high-quality safari adventures.

Seamless Travel to Iconic Safari Destinations

On his part, Safarilink Aviation Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Alex Avedi, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that Safarilink is thrilled to collaborate with Kenya Airways to offer a truly seamless travel experience to some of Kenya’s most iconic safari destinations.“Our fleet of Cessna Caravans and Dash-8 aircraft are perfectly suited to provide quick and efficient access to these remote airstrips, ensuring that visitors can maximize their time exploring the wonders of the Kenyan wilderness,” Avedi said.

Speaking during the launch event, Julius Thairu, the Chief Commercial and Customer Officer (CCCO) at Kenya Airways, noted that Kenya’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination, particularly for its exceptional safaris, continues to attract travelers from across the globe.

He further emphasized that this strategic partnership with Safarilink directly addresses the needs of today’s travelers, who prioritize efficiency and reliability.“By offering a single-ticket solution, we are making it easier and more convenient than ever for our customers to experience the magic of a Kenyan safari,” he added.

Source : The Kenya Times

Africa is becoming more connected than ever, by air. In 2025, several major international carriers are launching new routes to key African destinations, signalling renewed confidence in the region’s travel potential.

Africa is becoming more connected than ever, by air. Once known for limited direct access and long layovers, the aviation landscape across the continent is rapidly changing.

As tourism grows, business ties strengthen, and diaspora communities seek smoother travel options, airlines are stepping up to meet the demand.

In 2025, several major international carriers are launching new routes to key African destinations, signalling renewed confidence in the region’s travel potential.

This uptick in connectivity isn’t just good news for passengers, it also bodes well for trade, tourism, and investment. Increased air access can lower costs, boost local economies, and position Africa as a central player in global travel.

Here is a look at some of the most exciting new flight routes to Africa in 2025, which are making the continent more accessible, according to Condé Nast Traveller.

Virginia to Dakar, Senegal with United Airline

Starting May 23, 2025, United Airlines will introduce a new direct service connecting Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) in Dakar, Senegal. The route will operate three times a week and will be served by a Boeing 767-300ER, marking a significant expansion of United’s African network.

Atlanta to Accra, Ghana with Delta

Delta Air Lines is set to launch a new seasonal daily route from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. Beginning December 1, 2025, the service will be operated with the modern Airbus A330-900neo, offering travelers a more seamless and comfortable connection between the U.S. and West Africa.

Atlanta to Marrakech, Morocco with Delta Airline

Delta expands its African footprint with nonstop service from Atlanta to Morocco’s “Red City.” When Delta Air Lines launches its inaugural flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) on October 25, 2025, it will join United Airlines as one of only two US carriers serving Morocco.

JFK, New York to Lagos with Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has introduced a new seasonal route connecting New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos, Nigeria. Operating daily during the winter season with an Airbus A330-200, this new service complements Delta’s existing flights from Atlanta, offering travelers.

Paris to Tanzania with Air France

Air France has resumed operations to Tanzania after a 28-year hiatus, introducing three weekly flights from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) with a stopover in Zanzibar. The new route enhances connectivity between Europe and East Africa, opening up more travel opportunities to one of the continent’s most iconic destinations.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Sal, Cape Verde with EasyJet

On March 31, 2025, EasyJet kicked off its first-ever sub-Saharan Africa service with a new thrice-weekly route from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Sal, Cape Verde (SID). Operated with the fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo, the budget-friendly flight offers travelers a convenient six-hour journey from London to the breathtaking island archipelago, making tropical getaways more accessible than ever.

Munich International Airport (MUC) to Windhoek, Namibia with Discover Airlines

On April 1, 2025, Discover Airlines, a Lufthansa Group carrier, introduced a new nonstop service connecting Munich International Airport (MUC) with Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Namibia. The route operates three times a week, offering a smooth and convenient link to Southern Africa. In April, flights depart for Windhoek on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays; from May onward, the schedule shifts to Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Source : Africa Business Insider

Skyward Express, one of Kenya’s established domestic carriers, has officially rebranded to Skyward Airlines. The change reflects the company’s growth and evolving role in the country’s aviation landscape.

According to the airline, the rebrand represents a refreshed identity aligned with its expanded network and service offering. Skyward Airlines continues to operate scheduled flights connecting major cities and remote destinations across Kenya, serving a diverse mix of business travelers, tourists, and local communities.

The airline has made notable investments in route expansion and customer experience over the past year, positioning itself as a competitive player in the domestic aviation market.

Skyward Airlines is a member of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) and was last year voted Second Runners-Up in the Best Domestic Airline category at the Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KeTIBA).

Qatar Airways is bringing the latest in cutting-edge airline luxury to this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai with its ‘Qsuite Next Gen’ – the newest iteration of its multiple award-winning patented Qsuite Business Class.

Visitors and exhibitors will have the opportunity to experience the latest and greatest of the Qatar Airways’ industry-leading product from 28 April to 1 May.

The airline is setting something of a benchmark for travel innovation and business class experiences through the design of Qsuite Next Gen that features fully customisable Quad Suites creating the largest social space in the sky for groups of four and window aisle Companion Suites.  All suites have 4K OLED manoeuvrable in-flight entertainment screens that can be moved to connect the spacious and private suites.

From ambient lighting to privacy controls to the ‘Make My Bed’ button for the 5-star Qatar Airways turn-down service; ATM visitors are invited to interact with Qsuite Next Gen’s vast range of customisation options that create an unparalleled experience. Both the Quad and Companion Suites further boast increased dining space and taller digitally controlled privacy dividers, a testament to the airline’s consideration of passenger comfort in the skies.

With this year’s ATM theme, “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity”, Qatar Airways will spotlight its continued investment in technology, and customer experience, reinforcing its position as a global aviation leader.

Source : ittn.ie

Paperless, tech-driven flying will soon be the order of the day as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) proposes ‘digital travel credential’

Boarding Passes May Soon Be History: Here’s Why

The days of fumbling through your bag for a crumpled boarding pass or standing in never-ending check-in queues might soon be over. Airports across the world, including in India, are getting ready for a massive tech-driven makeover that could completely change how we fly. According to reports, passengers will soon be able to upload passport details to their smartphones and use only facial recognition to pass through airports, under proposals by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Over the last few years, biometric scans, facial recognition and digital identity have slowly and steadily starting replacing old-school boarding passes. Biometric check-ins and digital boarding systems are in place at major airports globally. In fact, Ryanair is planning to scrap paper boarding passes by November 3, 2025, in a statement released on March 5.

In India too, DigiYatra in India is live at airports like Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Varanasi, allowing travellers to check in using facial recognition linked to their Aadhaar.But now, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a UN agency that sets global aviation standards, is planning to introduce a ‘digital travel credential’. This digital ID will let you store and verify your passport information directly on your smartphone. When you book a flight, you’ll receive a “journey pass” instead of a ticket and you will be able to board flights simply by facial recognition.

This means ‘checking in’ for a flight will soon become obsolete! Whether you’re checking in luggage or travelling light with cabin bags only, everything from bag drop to security to boarding becomes frictionless, thanks to biometric scans. And this update doesn’t seem to be very far away. Airlines like British Airways, Air France-KLM, Finnair, and Saudia Airlines are already testing the new tech. British Airways says its digital tools are designed to “anticipate the needs of modern, digital travellers.”

Source : TimesNowNews

Despite the increasing cost of holidays, a significant number of travellers continue to forgo travel insurance, according to recent findings. A survey conducted by Aviva among 4,000 UK adults revealed that 11 per cent of travellers do not purchase any form of travel insurance — even though the average cost of cancelling a trip exceeds £900.

The lack of coverage can lead to serious consequences. Travellers without insurance risk facing substantial financial burdens, particularly in cases involving overseas medical treatment or emergency repatriation. Insurance also provides assistance during crises, ensuring travellers are not left without support when unexpected issues arise abroad.

Travel insurance generally offers protection against a wide range of scenarios, including emergency medical treatment, repatriation by air ambulance, and accommodation for a companion if hospitalisation occurs. Policies typically also cover trip cancellation, lost luggage, and travel delays, depending on the level of coverage selected.

There are two main types of travel insurance: single-trip and annual multi-trip. Single-trip policies cover one specific holiday, ending upon return. Annual multi-trip policies, on the other hand, cover multiple journeys within a 12-month period. For individuals who travel more than twice a year — whether on extended holidays or weekend getaways — an annual policy can offer convenience and potential cost savings. It’s particularly beneficial for those who often travel on short notice.

Travel insurance is not only relevant for international travel. Domestic holidays can also be disrupted by illness, cancellations, or accidents, and insurance provides an added layer of protection in these cases. Medical emergencies abroad, however, present the most serious financial risks. Industry experts recommend medical coverage of at least £2 million when travelling within Europe and up to £5 million for other destinations worldwide.

Timing is also a crucial factor. Purchasing travel insurance immediately after booking a trip ensures that cancellation cover is active should an unexpected issue arise before departure. Delaying the purchase may result in uncovered costs if something goes wrong before the journey begins.

When comparing travel insurance policies, consumers are advised to pay close attention to policy details and exclusions. One of the most common issues arises around pre-existing medical conditions, which many policies exclude unless explicitly declared and accepted by the insurer. It is vital for travellers to provide full and accurate medical histories to avoid invalidating their cover. Individuals over 65 or those with complex medical conditions may face limited options, as some providers impose restrictions or decline coverage altogether.

The cost of travel insurance varies significantly, influenced by factors such as age, destination, duration, medical history, and planned activities. Coverage for high-risk activities — including skiing or scuba diving — often comes with additional charges. While more expensive policies may offer broader protection, affordable plans can still provide sufficient coverage for travellers with simpler needs.

Ultimately, travel insurance serves as a financial safety net and an essential part of responsible trip planning. As the travel landscape becomes increasingly unpredictable, securing a suitable policy remains one of the most important steps a traveller can take.

Source : Independent

Uganda’s tourism soared in 2024 with record-breaking international arrivals, rising revenues, and strong domestic travel fueled by global and regional demand.

Uganda’s tourism sector is witnessing a powerful revival, with fresh figures highlighting a substantial upswing in international arrivals and sector-wide growth in 2024.

The Tourism Trends and Statistics Report 2025 shows the nation’s tourism industry gained strong momentum last year, building on post-pandemic recovery with impressive gains across international, domestic, and outbound travel segments. Both stability and sustained interest from global markets helped propel this upward trend.

According to the report, international tourist arrivals jumped by 7.7%, climbing from 1,274,210 in 2023 to a remarkable 1,371,895 visitors in 2024. The surge reflects growing global appeal, with the United States, India, and China maintaining their top-tier positions. Additionally, emerging markets such as Canada and Bangladesh registered notable growth, underscoring Uganda’s expanding long-haul travel reach.

Tourism revenues soared by 26%, generating USD 1.28 billion, driven by longer visitor stays averaging 8.7 nights and increased tourist spending, with leisure travelers spending approximately $2,114 per trip and $125 per night.

Hotel occupancy rates averaged 53.2% nationwide, with Kampala setting the benchmark at 68.3%. Domestic tourism also flourished, with nearly 1 million visits recorded across Uganda’s national parks, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), and heritage sites.

Outbound travel skyrocketed by 97%, with 7,657,059 Ugandans traveling internationally. Leisure-based inbound tourism accounted for 19.2% of arrivals—an impressive rise attributed to aggressive promotional campaigns such as Explore Uganda — The Pearl of Africa.

Tourism’s economic footprint deepened in 2024, contributing 6.6% to Uganda’s GDP and generating 7.2% of national employment. More than 800,000 jobs were supported across key sectors including hospitality, transportation, and food services. Direct tourism contributions amounted to 3.2% of GDP (UGX 6.06 trillion), according to Basil Ajer, Director of Tourism.

Uganda’s performance in 2024 confirms its rising stature as a compelling destination for global travelers, with the sector poised for even greater strides in the years ahead.

Source : Travel and Tour World

Members of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) have been nominated in the 2025 edition of the World Travel Awards (WTA) across various prestigious categories.

In the category of Kenya’s Leading Travel Management Company, the nominees include:

• ATS Travel
• Bunson Travel
• Elite Travel Services
• FCM Travel – Kenya
• Palbina Travel
• Satguru Travel Kenya

For Kenya’s Leading Travel Agency 2025, the nominees are:

• Blueberry Travel
• Hemingways Travel
• Satguru Travel Kenya

In addition, Twiga Tours has received multiple nominations, reflecting its excellence and leadership in the region:

• Africa’s Responsible Tourism Award 2025
• Kenya’s Leading Safari Company 2025
• Kenya’s Leading Tour Operator 2025
• Tanzania’s Leading Safari Company 2025

Their appearance on this list underscores the level of excellence that KATA continually advocates for within the travel sector — a standard rooted in professionalism, innovation, and consistency in service delivery. These companies have established themselves as leaders not just in Kenya, but in the broader regional and international travel landscape.

The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, are recognised globally for identifying and celebrating excellence across all sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. The awards draw participation from around the world, with nominees ranging from national tourism boards and airlines to luxury hotels and travel agencies. For many organisations, being shortlisted signals global credibility and recognition among peers and international travel audiences.

This year, the WTA Grand Final Gala Ceremony is scheduled to take place in Bahrain on 9 December 2025, bringing together key players from across the global travel ecosystem. That several KATA member agencies have secured nominations in this globally visible space is not only a point of pride for the individual companies but a reflection of the value that KATA has placed over the years on raising standards and positioning Kenyan travel services competitively on the world stage.

At its core, KATA’s role is to build capacity, strengthen professional conduct, and advocate for the interests of its members. These nominations illustrate the outcomes of that work — members operating at a standard that earns them global recognition.

This moment affirms the strength of Kenya’s travel industry and reaffirms the Association’s commitment to championing excellence in service, ethics, and global competitiveness.