Etihad resumes Nairobi-Abu Dhabi flights

In Summary

The inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi was warmly welcomed at JKIA today by KAA Board Chair Caleb Kositany.
KAA noted that the resumption marked a significant milestone in the aviation landscape.

*KAA and Etihad Airways staff during the latter’s resumption of flights to Nairobi on December 15, 2024/ HANDOUT*

Etihad Airways has resumed flights to Nairobi.

In a statement, the Kenya Airport Authority noted that the move enhances connectivity between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kenya.

“We are thrilled as Etihad officially resumes flights to Nairobi, enhancing connectivity between the UAE and Kenya,” the statement read in part.

The inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi was warmly welcomed at JKIA today by KAA Board Chair Caleb Kositany.

KAA noted that the resumption marked a significant milestone in the aviation landscape.

The resumption was first announced in August 2024, taking effect today, December 15.

Then, Etihad’s Vice President Network and Scheduling Lena Havia lauded the UAE and Kenyan authorities for authorisation to resume flights.

The airline will fly four times a week non-stop between Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).

Etihad Airways is set to double its routes to Africa over the next year, further committing to serving its guests.

Etihad was serving four African destinations including Johannesburg, South Africa; Cairo, Egypt; Mahe, Seychelles; and Casablanca, Morocco.

Starting December 15, the airline has resumed flights to Nairobi, Kenya, and next year will launch new routes to Tunis, Tunisia; Algiers, Algeria; and Al Alamein, Egypt.

In November, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De said they are committed to growing their network in Africa and doubling destinations over 2025.

“We are expanding our frequencies, including boosting both Johannesburg and Casablanca to daily services from next summer,” he said.

“This expansion will connect our guests across the continent with our growing network and bring them to our fantastic home in Abu Dhabi”.

Arik De said the airline will keep on expanding, even to a global level.“We are not stopping there. We recently announced ten new global destinations, including Tunis and Algiers, and plan to announce at least ten more each year as we grow towards 2030,” he said.

“These will include new cities in Africa, and our goal is to make all of these flights daily. We are growing sustainably and offering our customers across Africa the flights and frequencies that make sense to them and fit with our global network.”

Source: The-Star

Qantas extends global distribution agreement with Sabre

SINGAPORE and SYDNEY, Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, has extended its long-term distribution agreement with Qantas, Australia’s largest airline. This multi-year agreement reflects a continued commitment between Sabre and Qantas to deliver the widest breadth of content to travel agencies worldwide with the most flexible options, including comprehensive access to Qantas’ New Distribution Capability (NDC) content.

“At Qantas, we’re focused on enhancing our retailing capabilities to meet the dynamic needs of both travelers and travel agencies,” said Kathryn Robertson, Qantas Executive Manager, Global Sales & Distribution. “Our continuing collaboration with Sabre is central to our distribution strategy, helping ensure our customers can seamlessly shop, book, and service a comprehensive range of Qantas content via NDC. We’re excited to be able to offer agencies more flexibility and choice in the coming months through Sabre’s global marketplace.”

Sabre and Qantas have had a valued, long-standing distribution relationship, with Sabre being among the first global distribution systems to distribute the airline’s NDC offers in 2021. Under the renewed agreement, Sabre-connected agents will continue to be able to access the full range of traditional EDIFACT and NDC offers made available by Qantas.

“We’re delighted that Qantas continues to trust Sabre as a strategic distribution partner to advance their strategy,” said Chris Wilding, Senior Vice President, Air Distribution, Sabre Travel Solutions. “Just as we are committed to providing travellers with greater choice through our multi-source content platform, we also want to empower travel agents with enhanced flexibility and personalization in the way they do business. This renewed agreement highlights the joint commitment of Qantas and Sabre to creating a comprehensive marketplace that seamlessly meets the demands of a rapidly evolving travel ecosystem.”

About Sabre Corporation 
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 Qantas
Founded in 1920, Qantas is Australia’s national carrier and one of the world’s most recognized airlines. Known for its commitment to safety, innovation, and customer service, Qantas operates a comprehensive domestic and international network, connecting travelers to more than 85 destinations across Australia, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific.

Source: Sabre

The big changes coming to UK and European travel in 2025

Getty Images Travellers in line at UK customs (Credit:Getty Images) — There will soon be an additional step to visit the UK even if you don’t need a visa (Credit:Getty Images)

Many international travellers will soon need to register for an online authorisation before touching down in the UK or many EU nations.

Millions of travellers planning a trip to the UK will soon need to register for an online authorisation before landing – even if they’re just transiting en route to their final destination.

From 8 January 2025, visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia and other non-European nations who currently do not need a visa for short stays in the UK will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the country.

To receive an ETA, travellers must fill out an online form and pay a £10 fee (approximately US $12.75). Applicants should hear if their authorisation has been approved in a few hours, but in some cases, a decision may take up to three business days. The authorisation is valid for multiple entries to the UK for stays of up to six months and is good for a two-year period or until the traveller’s passport expires – whichever comes first.

The new authorisation isn’t just aimed at non-Europeans, though: beginning on 2 April 2025, EU nationals will also be required to obtain an ETA before entering the UK. (Citizens of the UK, Ireland and those with valid UK visas will be exempt.)

According to the UK government’s Home Office, the expansion of the ETA scheme (which previously only applied to citizens of seven Middle Eastern nations) is aimed at creating a more streamlined entry system by confirming traveller eligibility to enter the UK before they leave their country of origin. When boarding a plane to the UK, gate agents will verify your ETA status via digital link to your passport thereby reducing time and confusion at border crossings. The Home Office also says the biographic, biometric and contact details collected during the application process will also help to increase security by better tracking traveller movements.

“This expansion of ETA is a significant step forward in delivering a border that’s efficient and fit for the digital age,” Seema Malhotra, UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said in a statement. “Through light-touch screening before people step foot in the UK, we will keep our country safe while ensuring visitors have a smooth travel experience.”

Getty Images US Airport Face Scan: A growing number of countries are transitioning to digital border crossings (Credit: Getty Images) — US Airport Face Scan: A growing number of countries are transitioning to digital border crossings (Credit: Getty Images)

The UK’s ETA expansion is just one example of several new electronic entry programmes being rolled out around the world. Starting in the spring of 2025, the EU will require a new travel authorisation for visa-exempt foreigners from 60 nations (including the UK, US, Canada and Australia) before they are allowed to enter 30 EU nations. Similar to the ETA, this new programme, called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requires short-term travellers to apply online, pay a small fee (€7 – roughly US $7.40 or £5.80) and then wait up to 96 hours for applications to be approved.

The EU is also poised to launch a separate digital monitoring initiative called the Entry/Exit System (EES), which uses face and fingerprint scans instead of passports to identify non-EU nationals. Unlike the ETIAS, this new security measure (which was scheduled to roll out in November 2024 but has been delayed until sometime in 2025) doesn’t require travellers to apply for anything before they start their trip. Instead, travellers will be registered upon entering any of the 29 EU nations using the system.

According to the EU’s travel information website, the goal of the EES is to modernise border crossings and speed up long immigration lines that have surged with the post-pandemic travel demand. Like other digital entry systems that have been in place for years around the world – such as in the US, Canada, and Australia – the new entry system is also aimed at combatting identity fraud and the number of people overstaying in the EU.

More like this:

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However, not everyone is happy about the increased digitisation of the border entry process. Critics of the expanded ETA scheme are concerned that the extra process and fee will be a barrier to younger and less affluent travellers. Others worry that as nations and regions continue to move towards online entry forms, they’ll no longer receive passport stamps, which have long held a sentimental place among travellers. There’s also a general concern about what happens in the event of a tech glitch.

“I’m sad about [the digitisation of travel] and also concerned,” said Kita Jean, a frequent traveller and member of Nomadness Travel Tribe, an online community for travellers of colour. “Passport stamps are a great way to document memories and look back at, but they’re also good for when processes and technology fails.”

As more places continue to implement digital entry systems and fees, only time will tell whether these new changes will help make crossing borders more efficient or whether travellers view them as an inefficient an unnecessary hoops to jump through.

Source: BBC.

Skyward Express flags off first Mombasa-Dar Direct Flight

In a landmark achievement for regional connectivity and development, Skyward Express has officially spearheaded the initial inaugural direct flight from Mombasa to Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.

The introduction of this direct flight is noted to be a great step towards enhancing bilateral relations between Kenya and Tanzania by fostering increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

Speaking at Moi International Airport, Mombasa, during the launch, Mombasa Governor Abdulswammad Nassir flanked by the Chairman of the Kenya Airports Authority Caleb Kositany emphasized the importance of the new flight in reducing travel time and cost.

Previously, passengers had to connect through Nairobi before heading to Dar-es-Salaam, adding hours to their journey.

“This direct flight not only saves time but also lowers travel costs, making the route more accessible to businesses, tourists, and local travellers,” Nassir noted.

“An active airport doesn’t just benefit Mombasa; it impacts the entire region. With Dongo Kundu having been finished, it has reduced the travel time to Diani to just 30 minutes, and by the time the Mombasa- Malindi Highway is done, getting to Kilifi, Watamu, and Malindi would take even a lesser time than before the growth potential is immense,” he noted.

Nassir highlighted the broader benefits of increased air connectivity, stating that an active open skies policy could link Mombasa to over 300 cities globally. This would not only boost tourism but significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP by attracting more international passengers.

He also urged policymakers to consider introducing tax incentives and other support mechanisms for local aviation companies to enhance their competitiveness in the global market. “A competitive aviation sector supported by favorable policies will unlock economic potential and ensure Mombasa and neighboring counties reap the full benefits of improved connectivity,” he said.

On his part, Kositany commended Skyward Express for their commitment to bridging regional gaps and lauded the partnership as a critical move towards advancing Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals.

Kositany reiterated that launching the direct flight from Mombasa to Dar-es-salam is a gateway for tourists, entrepreneurs, and everybody who wants to explore and promote the county and country as a key regional and international hub.

He further revealed plans by the Kenya Airports Authority to expand airport facilities to match the growing industry demands.

“Our air travel industry continues to grow, with more Kenyans flying. We are committed to creating a more comfortable and efficient environment by reducing congestion in our airports and enhancing overall passenger experience,” he added.

Skyward Express Chairman, Captain Mohammed Abdi, reflected on the airline’s growth journey, noting that their inaugural flight to Mombasa from Wilson Airport took place eight years ago. Since then, the airline has added two more daily flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Mombasa, offering both morning and evening schedules.

Abdi highlighted the strategic decision to connect through JKIA in the early days, emphasizing the importance of building capacity, acquiring larger aircraft, and positioning the airline as a competitive player.

“Our goal was to offer a superior experience, reducing flight times to Mombasa to less than an hour, a standard that sets us apart from other airlines,” he explained.

He also shared Skyward Express’s recent milestone of launching its first regional flight from Nairobi to Dar-es-Salaam last month, underscoring the airline’s vision to fly daily and seamlessly connect key destinations like Mombasa.

Captain Abdi went on to urge other airlines to build capacity to be able to compete fairly with the big airlines. He concluded by noting that the connectivity of Mombasa to Dar is the airline’s dedication to enhancing regional connectivity while meeting the growing demands of travellers.

Source: Kenya News

Kenya Airways announces new route, Nairobi to Gatwick direct flights beginning July 2025

9^th December 2024, Nairobi– Starting 2nd July 2025, Kenya Airways (KQ) will begin operating direct flights to London’s Gatwick Airport from its hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Kenya Airways will now serve the United Kingdom (UK) through two entry points: London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) with KQ Customers being able to choose a second nonstop flight into London.

The flights to Gatwick will operate at night out of Nairobi, 3 times a week specifically on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and will complement the existing London schedule increasing the London frequency to 10 weekly flights.

Commenting on the new route, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO said that it is part of KQ’s route expansion strategy and offers convenience for customers. He also hinted at the potential for further expansion, stating that ‘this is just the beginning of our expansion plans for the UK market ‘.

“The United Kingdom is essential and strategic for Kenya Airways and Kenya. It provides a gateway for trade, tourism, education, business, leisure travel, and diaspora connections. We are excited to add Gatwick Airport to our expansive network as it means that KQ guests now have more options in and out of the UK and a convenient schedule that suits their travel preferences.” said Mr Kilavuka.

The flight schedule will operate as indicated below:

Flight Number	Frequency	Departure Time (local time)	Arrival Time (local time)	Destination
KQ 108	Wednesday,	23:45	06:55	Gatwick (LGW)
KQ 108	Friday & Sunday	23:40	06:50	Gatwick (LGW)
KQ 109	Monday	12:10	23:05	Nairobi (NBO)
KQ 109	Thursday	11:00	21:55	Nairobi (NBO)
KQ 109	Saturday	12:25	23:20	Nairobi (NBO)

Located in West Sussex, England, Gatwick Airport is situated 47.5 kilometers south of Central London, making it a convenient gateway for travelers from the Southeast and South of England. Passengers traveling from Gatwick will enjoy seamless connections to Kenya Airways’ extensive network via its hub in Nairobi, ensuring a smooth and connected travel experience. Flights are open for booking on Kenya Airways’ website www.kenya-airways.com , travel agents as well as online travel agents (OTAs).

-ENDS-

About Kenya Airways:

Kenya Airways (KQ), The Pride of Africa, is a leading African carrier on a mission to propel Africa’s prosperity by connecting its people, cultures, and markets. We fly to 44 destinations worldwide, 36 of which are in Africa,

connecting over 5 million passengers and over 70,000 Tons of cargo annually through our Hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

As the sole African carrier in the SkyTeam Alliance, we open up a world of possibilities for our customers, connecting them to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. We take pride in offering a delightful flying experience with a caring African touch. Our exceptional African hospitality has consistently earned us global recognition including the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards where we were honored with the Best Airline Staff and Best Airline Cabin Crew in Africa in 2024.

For more information, visit www.kenya-airways.com or call our 24-hour Customer Services Desk at +254 20 327 4747. We are also available on Twitter: @KenyaAirways & @KQSupport, Facebook: @OfficialKenyaAirways, and Instagram: @OfficialKenyaAirways.

For media enquiries, please contact Kenya Airways Corporate Communications: Corporate.communications@kenya-airways.com

Aviation stakeholders urge MPs to reject proposed tax on air travel services

Stakeholders in Kenya’s aviation sector have opposed the proposed introduction of a 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on several services within the industry, urging Members of Parliament to reconsider the move.

The proposed VAT would affect a wide range of services, including aircraft services, spare parts, air ticketing, and certain tourism-related activities, raising concerns about its potential negative impact on domestic travel and the broader tourism sector.

Among the services set to be taxed are aircraft with an unladen weight exceeding 2,000kgs but not exceeding 15,000kgs, direction-finding compasses, aircraft appliances, and spare parts imported by aircraft operators.

Additionally, services related to the leasing and chartering of aircraft (excluding helicopters), as well as air ticketing services provided by travel agents, would also face the new tax.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has strongly advocated for the retention of the current VAT exemptions, arguing that the proposed changes could undermine the growth of domestic and regional travel.

Significant investment risks

During their presentation before the National Assembly’s Finance Committee on Wednesday, IATA officials noted that the high cost of acquiring aircraft already adds significant investment risks, discouraging potential investors.

“If all aircraft remain exempt from VAT, we can expect an increase in domestic travel volumes, which will lead to higher collections from air passenger service charges. Additionally, VAT earnings from hotels, meals, and accommodation services will see a sustainable increase, benefitting the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA),” IATA representatives stated.

Similarly, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) voiced its opposition, stressing that the VAT proposal could disrupt the entire tourism value chain.

KATA warned that increasing the cost of both domestic and international travel would reduce the affordability of trips for tourists, diminishing Kenya’s competitiveness in the regional market.

“This will significantly raise operating costs for the air travel sector and, by extension, the cost of travel within Kenya and abroad,” KATA representatives said.

The association also pointed out that many businesses in the tourism industry rely heavily on air travel services, which are often facilitated by local travel agencies. These agencies play a crucial role in the broader tourism ecosystem, supporting various stakeholders in the industry.

In addition, KATA highlighted that Kenya is already facing stiff competition from other safari destinations like South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Tanzania, which have adopted more favourable tax and fee structures for intra-Africa travel.

Both IATA and KATA have urged MPs to reconsider the proposed VAT imposition, arguing that it would undermine the Kenyan tourism sector’s growth and the aviation industry’s ability to thrive.

They further noted that many other African countries have created legislative frameworks designed to reduce travel and tourism costs, thus promoting a competitive advantage in the region.

Source: Eastleigh voice

Experience Luxury and Elevated Comfort as You Fly to London with Kenya Airways On The Airbus A330-300

This holiday season we want you to experience comfort and style as you travel to/from London. From 1^st December 2024 to 15^th January 2025, Kenya Airways will operate the Airbus A330-300 on the London route. This introduction aims to give our guests an elevated travel experience by combining style and luxury aboard the Airbus A330-300. Combined with the renowned Kenya Airways world-class hospitality, guests can unwind on the fully flat beds in Business Class, or enjoy elevated comfort in our Economy Class.

The aircraft has a capacity of 46 business class seats for those who prefer to indulge in luxury and 203 spacious economy class seats.

Ready for your next adventure to London? Book today!

Revolutionizing the Travel Industry: A Glimpse into KeTIBA and the Evolution of Travel Agents

Industries across the globe have undergone monumental changes, and the travel sector is no exception. From steam-powered trains of yesteryears to electric ones and who knows what AI will bring, the transformation is undeniable. The role of travel agents has similarly evolved, embracing technology, shifting customer preferences, and the demand for personalized experiences.

Shilen Jobanputra, Director of Travel n Style, a travel agency with a legacy spanning nearly three decades, has witnessed this evolution firsthand. “In the past, ticketing was a physical process—paper tickets for every trip. Now, e-ticketing has not only streamlined operations but also elevated customer convenience,” he shared. The shift from paper to digital was driven by technological advancements, market demands, and a growing emphasis on customer satisfaction.

“Today’s travelers are more informed and discerning. They no longer just buy tickets to get to a destination; they seek experiences, quality service, and innovation,” Jobanputra emphasized. This shift has necessitated a higher standard of excellence and innovation within the travel industry.

KeTIBA: Celebrating Excellence in the Travel Industry

Recognizing this paradigm shift, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) established the Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KeTIBA). These peer-reviewed awards aim to spotlight and celebrate excellence in Kenya’s travel industry. From travel agents to suppliers—including airlines, hotels, and technology providers—KeTIBA honors those who continue to raise the bar in service delivery and innovation.

“Through these awards, KATA aims to encourage continued innovation, dedication, and service excellence among travel agents and their suppliers,” noted KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula. The awards are not just about recognition; they are a testament to the evolving landscape of the travel industry and a call to consistently strive for better.

A Transparent and Credible Process

KeTIBA has instituted a rigorous voting process to maintain credibility and fairness. Travel agents vote for suppliers, and suppliers, in turn, vote for travel agents. To ensure the integrity of the voting process, each institution is provided with a unique access code for the voting portal. This mechanism guarantees that every vote is accounted for and that each establishment can only vote once.

In addition, KATA has partnered with Ronalds LLP, a Kenyan auditing firm, to oversee the voting process. This collaboration underscores KATA’s commitment to transparency and credibility. “We will partner with an audit firm to ensure that winners are determined solely based on legitimate votes. The awards are a true reflection of the industry’s choices,” Sabula emphasized.

The Grand Finale: A Night of Glamour and Celebration

The culmination of the KeTIBA process is a grand gala dinner scheduled for December 11th at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi. This event promises to be a glittering evening of celebration, marking the end of the year in style.

Attendees, adorned in black and gold attire, will gather to honor the outstanding achievements within the travel industry. The gala dinner will not only celebrate the winners but also serve as a platform for networking and fostering stronger industry relationships.

“This is not just an awards night; it’s a celebration of the resilience, innovation, and excellence that define Kenya’s travel industry,” said Sabula.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel Agents

As the travel industry continues to evolve, KeTIBA serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and dedication to excellence. The awards also highlight the crucial role travel agents play in shaping memorable experiences for their clients.

Jobanputra, reflecting on the journey of the industry, remarked, “It’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come. From ticketing to crafting experiences, the travel industry is not just about getting from point A to point B anymore. It’s about the journey, the memories, and the impact we leave behind.”

As the December gala approaches, it’s clear that KeTIBA is more than just an awards ceremony. It’s a celebration of the industry’s progress, a commitment to its future, and a reminder that excellence and innovation are at the heart of Kenya’s travel industry.

The Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards exemplify the resilience and ingenuity of the travel sector. As the world continues to change, KATA’s initiative stands as a beacon, encouraging stakeholders to embrace innovation, prioritize customer satisfaction, and strive for excellence.

Nature’s Noble Heritage: KATA Explores BW Panari Resort’s Sustainable Sanctuary

By: Bryan Akoi

In a strategic move that signals the evolving landscape of Kenya’s luxury hospitality sector, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) orchestrated an exclusive familiarization tour at the newly-minted BW Signature Collection’s crown jewel – the Panari Resort Nyahururu. This carefully curated expedition wasn’t just another hotel visit; it represented a masterclass in sustainable luxury tourism.

Perched majestically in Nyahururu’s pristine highlands, where the thunderous Thomson’s Falls meets the serpentine Ewaso Nyiro River, the resort emerged as a testament to thoughtful architectural integration with nature. Travel professionals discovered a property where luxury doesn’t whisper – it harmonizes with the environment in perfect pitch.

Panari Resort Nyahururu guestroom with seats and bed

“What we’re offering isn’t just accommodation; it’s an immersive journey into responsible luxury,” reflects Devendra Asher, Group General Manager of Panari Hotels and Resort. His eyes sparkle with enthusiasm as he adds, “When travel agents experience our commitment firsthand, they become not just partners, but passionate ambassadors of our vision.”

The property’s innovative design philosophy reveals itself through cottage-style havens that pay homage to their natural surroundings. Each room tells its own story through botanical-inspired wallpapers, bespoke wooden finishes, and the warmth of stone fireplaces – a deliberate departure from cookie-cutter luxury.

Beyond the architectural marvels, the familiarization tour unveiled the resort’s crown jewels: a solar-heated indoor pool that gleams like a jewel in the African sun, state-of-the-art meeting facilities that can host up to 300 visionaries, and a spa sanctuary that promises transformation. The Brown Olive Restaurant and Silky Oak Bar emerged as culinary destinations in their own right, where local flavors dance with international techniques.

But perhaps the most compelling narrative unfolded at the newly established Elephant Water Hole in Marmanet Forest. Here, luxury tourism and wildlife conservation converge in a dialogue that speaks volumes about the resort’s commitment to sustainable practices. The property’s proximity to Lake Ol’ Bolossat, a haven for 185 bird species, transforms every stay into a potential wildlife documentary.

As the sun painted the sky in hues of amber, KATA members, adorned in vibrant Ankara attire, gathered for more than just a dinner – it was a celebration of Kenyan heritage seamlessly woven into modern luxury. The evening’s sophistication was matched only by its authenticity, creating Instagram-worthy moments that told stories of cultural pride.

In a powerful finale that transcended typical hospitality gestures, participants wielded shovels instead of champagne glasses. The tree-planting ceremony, set against the backdrop of the resort’s existing environmental initiatives, wasn’t merely symbolic – it was a tangible commitment to carbon footprint reduction. Each sapling represented a promise: luxury tourism and environmental stewardship need not be mutually exclusive.

“This isn’t just about selling rooms,” one KATA member observed, patting the soil around a newly planted indigenous tree. “It’s about selling a vision of responsible luxury that our clients increasingly demand.”

As the curtain fell on this meticulously orchestrated familiarization tour, one thing became crystal clear: BW Panari Resort Nyahururu isn’t just another luxury address in Kenya’s hospitality landscape. It’s pioneering a new narrative where world-class amenities, cultural authenticity, and environmental consciousness converge to create experiences that are as sustainable as they are unforgettable.

For the discerning traveler seeking more than just a getaway, this hidden gem in Nyahururu offers something increasingly rare in today’s world – luxury without compromise, either to comfort or conscience.

Strengthening Aviation in Kenya and Africa Unlocking Africa’s Aviation Potential

Aviation is crucial for global connectivity, economic growth, and regional integration. Yet, Africa, accounting for just 3% of global air traffic, remains underrepresented. Kenya, however, is positioned to lead the transformation of the continent’s aviation sector. Now is the time to act.

Why Africa Needs Aviation More Than Other Continents

Geographic & Infrastructure Challenges: Africa’s vast size & underdeveloped road and rail systems make aviation essential. Unlike continents like Europe or North America, many African regions lack reliable transport options. Aviation bridges these gaps

Economic Integration and Growth: The AfCFTA aims to increase intra-African trade, and better air connectivity is key to realizing this potential. Aviation can enhance movement of goods and people, boosting regional economies. The Yamoussoukro Decision on liberalized air services remains underutilized, limiting opportunities for growth.

Tourism and Job Creation: Africa is home to 8 of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots. With aviation, Africa’s tourism industry—already significant in countries like Kenya—can grow further, creating jobs and diversifying economies. Kenya’s tourism contributes $2.2 billion to GDP, and better air connectivity could increase this number.

Overcoming Infrastructure Gaps: Africa’s inadequate land-based infrastructure makes air travel the most efficient way to connect remote regions. Aviation can ensure access to essential services, stimulating economic and social development.

Current Challenges

High operational costs, fragmented markets, and limited regional connectivity.
Lack of investment in both major airports and smaller regional airfields.
Restrictive air agreements that limit competition and service expansion.
Strategic Actions for Growth

Policy and Regulatory Reforms: Embrace initiatives like the SAATM to open airspace and improve trade. Kenya, a regional leader, can foster growth by aligning with ICAO standards and attracting private investment into the sector.

Infrastructure Investments: Modernizing key airports such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and smaller regional airfields will improve connectivity, enhance trade, and support passenger growth.

Cost Reduction Initiatives: African airlines should collaborate through alliances or joint ventures to leverage economies of scale and reduce operational costs, making air travel more competitive.

Sustainability: Align with global sustainability standards like ICAO’s CORSIA to mitigate aviation’s environmental impact while supporting growth.

Call to Action
Africa’s aviation sector is primed for transformation. By adopting strategic policies, investing in infrastructure, and fostering regional collaboration, we can position Africa as a leading player in global aviation. The time to act is now.