Easing travel restrictions to boost intra-African trade

Kingsley Ighobor

From Africa Renewal: November 2024 6 November 2024

By: Kingsley Ighobor

At the annual Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) event, tagged #UnstoppableAfrica and held in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly last September, Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, shared how, despite investing over $600 million in a certain African country, he still needed a visa to enter.

“As an investor, as someone who wants to make Africa great, I have to apply for 35 different visas on my passport,” Dangote also lamented during the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, in May 2024.

For Dangote and many African business leaders, mobility restrictions stymie business; removing them will unlock the potential of intra-African trade, which currently stands at an unimpressive 17 percent—far behind Europe’s 60 percent trade within its borders.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), unveiled by African leaders in March 2018, is expected to boost intra-African trade and consolidate a market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion. The World Bank estimates it could increase Africa’s income by $450 billion by 2035, potentially lifting 30 million people out of extreme poverty.

The AfCFTA could expand Africa’s tax base and its capacity to sustainably manage its approximately $1.1 trillion—and growing—debt, asserts the Brookings Institution, a US-based think tank.

Implementation of the trade pact is progressing well, said Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of the Accra-based AfCFTA Secretariat, at the GABI event. With 54 AU member states signed on (only Eritrea has not) and 48 countries submitting instruments of ratification, Mene expects trade to grow significantly, although challenges remain.

Free movement is key

A 2023 AU and UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) study maintains that free movement within the continent is “indispensable for intra-African trade and the region’s integration and development agenda.”

Yet only four African countries—Benin, The Gambia, Rwanda and Seychelles—offer visa-free entry to all African citizens; 33 countries provide visa-free travel to citizens from at least 10 African countries; and 30 countries still require visas for over half of Africa’s nations, according to the 2023 Africa Visa Openness Index, produced by the African Development Bank Group and the AU Commission.

Conceptually, African leaders themselves would like to ease movement restrictions. For example, the AU’s Agenda 2063 envisions “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa.” In 2018, they adopted the protocol on free movement of persons, ahead of the AfCFTA’s entry into force.

As well, the AfCFTA Secretariat identifies “excessive border delays” and “cumbersome document requirements” as non-tariff barriers that must be eliminated to facilitate smoother intra-African trade.

But when trading under the AfCFTA began in January 2021, the free movement protocol was still not in effect. As of October 2024, only 32 countries have signed the protocol, with just four (Mali, Niger, Rwanda, and São Tomé and Príncipe) ratifying it—well short of the 15 ratifications required for it to take effect.

Barriers to Implementation

Why are countries reluctant to ratify the free movement protocol? According to the AU-ECA study, there is limited awareness among states of the economic benefits of free movement. Greater labor mobility could drive intra-African trade, knowledge transfer, capacity building and improved market access for African products and services.

Additionally, many countries lack adequate border management infrastructure, making it difficult to efficiently handle migration flows and enforce security measures.

Also, some states fear that foreign workers may take local jobs or strain public resources like health, education and sanitation services.

Visa fees remain a vital revenue source for many countries, often helping to offset budget deficits. Removing these fees could temporarily impact national budgets, even if free movement might yield greater economic benefits in the long term.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also raised health concerns, with some countries worried that unrestricted cross-border movement could facilitate the spread of diseases, complicating public health management.

The AU-ECA study notes a gap between the protocol on the free movement of persons and the AfCFTA’s emphasis on the free movement of goods and services, expressing concern over the disproportionate focus on the latter. It recommends that both aspects be prioritized.

The path forward

Despite these challenges, there is optimism among free trade area advocates. AfCFTA’s Guided Trade Initiative (GTI), which began in October 2022 with seven countries, has grown to 39 countries, including economic powerhouses South Africa and Nigeria. The GTI is a pilot for the AfCFTA’s legal and operational framework, and its success bodes well for broader goals like the free movement of persons.

The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a joint initiative by the AfCFTA Secretariat and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), is facilitating cross-border payments in local currencies and is gradually gaining traction among traders. With over 42 currencies in use among 48 participating countries, PAPSS aims to reduce costs associated with currency exchange, particularly benefiting traveling business leaders and young entrepreneurs.

There is the point of relative integration successes in Africa’s regional economic communities— in the East African Community (EAC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), for instance—that could pave the way for broader continental integration.

In the long term, the launch of the pan-African passport in July 2016 could help tackle mobility barriers. The AU expects citizens to have access to these passports in the future, which will be good news for women traders who constitute about 70 percent of informal cross-border trade in Africa and often face bottlenecks at border crossings.

The stars appear aligned for AfCFTA’s success. A deal of effort has already gone into establishing the legal frameworks for digital trade, rules of origin, a dispute settlement mechanism and so on, as well as instruments such as the PAPSS and the African Trade Observatory, an information portal.

Mene emphasizes more effort will be needed to persuade states to ease restrictions on the movement of persons.

Source: Africa Renewal

We’re Travel Agents. Here’s What We’d Never Do When Booking A Hotel

If you’re looking for a place to stay on your upcoming trip, avoid making these mistakes when booking.

Caroline Bologna

by Caroline Bologna HuffPost Writer

When you plan a vacation, there are only so many flight options to choose from. Booking a hotel, however, can be a much more overwhelming experience.

Big cities, famous beaches and other popular tourist destinations boast a wide variety of accommodations: low-budget chains, quirky boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Even once you decide which vibe is for you, you’ll likely find many choices that match your vision. And there are countless factors to weigh as you select your hotel, room type and more.

“People often underestimate how much the actual hotel experience can add to their trip,” said Angela Marini, a travel agent with Fora. “The hotel is more than just a place to sleep ― it’s a key part of the overall travel experience. Whether it’s enjoying the amenities, relaxing in a comfortable room or soaking in the ambiance, your hotel choice can make or break a trip.”

To guide travelers through the selection process, HuffPost asked Marini and other travel advisers to share the common mistakes people make when booking a hotel — and why they try to avoid these errors.

They don’t choose nonrefundable rates.

Person uses a laptop to book a flight online, holding a credit card. A camera and plant are on the table

“I never book the nonrefundable rate unless I’m 100% sure of my plans,” said Brianna Glenn, CEO and travel adviser at Milk + Honey Travels. “Flexibility is crucial in travel, and plans can change unexpectedly. I prioritize refundable or flexible rates, even if they cost slightly more, to avoid losing money if I need to adjust my stay.”

Even if you have every intention of sticking with your plans, you might deal with unexpected flight delays or cancellations that affect your ability to reach the hotel you booked. If you choose a fully or partially refundable option, you can at least get some of your money back when there’s a last-minute change. 

“I never book without checking the cancellation policy,” said Fora travel adviser Ronit Margolis. “I prefer flexibility, especially when travel dates aren’t set in stone. If there is a strict no-cancellation policy, I purchase trip insurance.”

They don’t book without talking to someone at the hotel.

A person in a casual shirt sits at a table, smiling while talking on the phone with a laptop nearby

“As a travel expert, I never forgo the opportunity to speak with someone at the hotel when booking a stay for myself,” said Kareem George, founder of Culture Traveler. “I have found this to prevent unpleasant surprises, such as discovering certain amenities are not available, the presence of construction, arriving to find that a large group has taken over much of the property, etc.”

He added that calling the hotel also gives him the opportunity to learn about any special events during his stay and to request a complimentary upgrade. 

Fora travel adviser Amna Ismail agreed with giving hotels a call before booking.

“If I have specific preferences, like a high floor or early check-in, I always call the hotel directly to confirm availability instead of relying on notes in the booking and always follow up with an email,” Ismail said.

They don’t forget to keep monitoring the price after booking.

I don't know who this is, but a person is sitting at a table, focused on a laptop, with a coffee cup nearby, wearing a button-up shirt

“I never ‘set it and forget it’ after booking,” said Michael DeLucca, a travel agent and founder of Otsy. “I prioritize rooms with flexible cancellation policies, especially when booking far in advance. I then manually check rates weekly or use a rate-monitoring tool like Pruvo, which alerts me to price drops. This allows me to cancel and rebook at lower rates.”

He said he often saves 10-30% as hotel prices fluctuate and new promotions arise. 

“This approach ensures I get the best possible price without falling victim to price manipulation tactics or losing flexibility in my travel plans,” DeLucca added. 

They don’t overlook the location.

Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, with art deco buildings, outdoor cafes, palm trees, and a bike path

“I would never book a hotel in a bad location for a better price,” said Jonathan Alder, founder of Jonathan’s Travels. “Location always comes first, as it can make or break the success of your trip.”

Consider the sites and restaurants you plan to visit during your trip. How long will it take to get from your accommodations to your activities? Is there good public transportation? Are there specific neighborhoods you want to explore in depth? 

“It can be the best hotel, but in the worst location,” said Chirag Panchal, a Fora travel adviser. “It is important to check that the hotel is in a safe area, convenient to the places I plan to visit while I am staying there.”

They don’t book without checking the reviews.

“I never skip the reviews,” said Fora adviser Caroline Bernthal. “As an adviser, I know tons of properties across the world. If someone requests a property I don’t know, I immediately head for the reviews. I also always check to see if they are members of any programs I know vet properties well, such as Relais and Château and SLH.”

Hotel reviews from previous guests often include helpful information about noise levels, service quality, and more. But remember to do a thorough analysis for the full picture. Be on the lookout for common patterns, but take certain criticisms with a grain of salt. 

“Never fully rely on the really good and really bad reviews online,” said Fora adviser Caroline Weilert. “There is so much online clutter, and usually, when people take time to write reviews, they are for extreme points of view. I skim those but toss them out. It’s the balanced reviews that provide the most insight to inform my own decision-making on where to stay.”

They don’t rely on the hotel-provided photos.

Person browsing vacation home rentals on a smartphone with a laptop open in the background, showing similar listings

“I never rely only on hotel-provided photos,” Margolis said. “Hotel photos can be misleading or outdated.”

Instead, she looks for reviews for photos taken by guests to get a more accurate sense of room size, cleanliness and overall condition. 

“With social media these days, you can look for the hotel tags and see previous guests’ photos to get a more accurate depiction,” Margolis added. 

They don’t pick the cheapest room.

A suitcase stands in a modern hotel room with a neatly made bed and large windows in the background

“I avoid booking the cheapest room category unless I’ve reviewed its size and amenities,” Ismail said. “Sometimes spending a little more for a higher category can significantly enhance the overall experience and get you additional perks, which actually make it a better deal.”

If you know a beach view helps you better relax on your hard-earned vacation, consider making this small splurge. 

Lower rates also might not come with a bed type guarantee, which means arriving to either two doubles or one king. Families traveling with children shouldn’t take this gamble. 

“This can be cheaper, but you’re leaving it up to the hotel to place you in whatever room type they have available,” said Rena Shah, the head of lodging and experiences for Chase Travel. “So unless you’re traveling solo, I would avoid this. Don’t book a room without confirming the bedding type.”

They don’t choose a hotel based on star rating.

A charming brick hotel with glowing lights, featuring balconies and a street view at dusk. No people are visible in the image

“Never book solely based on star ratings,” Glenn said. “Star ratings don’t always reflect the true guest experience. A five-star hotel may not always align with personal preferences for boutique or intimate accommodations, and these star ratings also mean very different things in different parts of the world.”

She said she instead considers the hotel’s atmosphere, location, and amenities to identify which option matches her travel style and purpose of the trip. 

They don’t use third-party bookers.

Person holding a smartphone with a hotel booking app open, featuring fields for destination, dates, number of adults, and children

“I never book through a third-party channel,” Panchal said. “There is nothing worse than showing up to a hotel to check in only to learn that they have been oversold, and most likely it’s the third-party bookings that will be walked first.”

“Third-party online travel agency rates are also ineligible for extra perks and hotel loyalty points, so although they may be slightly discounted, the lack of additional amenities often outweigh booking through those channels,” he added.

That means you’re more likely to get an upgrade or have a specific room request honored if you book directly with the hotel.

“I have also noted that the OTA room blocks are often the less desirable inventory of the hotel,” George said. 

That doesn’t mean you can’t use these services to your advantage. 

“I start by checking rates on popular third-party OTAs, but I never finalize my booking there,” DeLucca said. “After identifying the best rate using VPN or incognito browsing mode, I call the hotel directly. Often, hotels are willing to match or beat the third-party rate to avoid paying commission fees and secure the booking directly.” 

They don’t consider only the busiest travel seasons.

Crowded night Christmas market with festive lights, bustling with people enjoying the holiday atmosphere

“Traveling between Christmas and New Year’s is often one of the busiest and most expensive times of the year,” Marini said. “Everything from flights to hotels, restaurants and activities tends to come at a premium. You pay more and get less.” 

When she books a hotel room for herself, she tries to open her search up to “shoulder seasons,” which are often the best time to visit a destination in terms of hotel rates, crowds and weather.

They don’t book without pursuing preferred rate options.

A person relaxing in a hotel room, sitting on a bed with breakfast on a tray, holding a phone and a cup. Cozy, modern interior design

“I make sure to never book a regular room rate,” Panchal said. “As a travel adviser who is a preferred partner for most luxury hotels around the world, I always book through a preferred partner rate so that I don’t miss out on potential upgrades, complimentary breakfast, early check-in, late checkout, and other exclusive amenities.”

He believes travelers are “leaving money on the table” when they don’t consider booking through an agent with a direct connection to the hotel. 

Alder agreed, saying, “I would never book a hotel without considering using a travel agent, as they get you better amenities at no additional hotel cost to you.”

“Plus, your agent knows the best properties and destinations for your trip,” he added. “Relying solely on online searches can be a disadvantage for consumers.”

Source: BuzzFeed

Kenya rolls out reforms to boost passenger traffic at JKIA

NAIROBI, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) — The Kenyan government on Monday rolled out reforms at the main airport Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), located in the capital city of Nairobi, to enhance passenger traffic.

John Mbadi, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of National Treasury and Economic Planning, said in a statement issued in Nairobi that the reforms will deliver seamless, efficient, and respectful services to customers departing and arriving in the country through the facility.

“The goal is to reduce waiting time, minimize any inconveniences, and strengthen Kenya’s reputation as a welcoming destination,” Mbadi said.

He said the government has prioritized advanced technological solutions in the reforms to streamline customs and immigration processes to minimize paperwork.

He added that the initiative will provide travelers with clear information on customs duties and taxes, therefore, promoting transparency.

Mbadi noted that the measures would help position JKIA as a world-class gateway to Kenya and a leading aviation hub.

JKIA is one of Kenya’s three main entry points, with the other two being Moi International Airport located in the coastal city of Mombasa and another in the lakeside city of Kisumu in western Kenya.

Most of Kenya’s tourists arrived through JKIA, while the rest entered the country via the Moi airport.

According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, in the first quarter of 2024, Kenya received 409,164 tourists through the two airports, with 343,555 using JKIA.

Source: Capital Fm

Uganda hosts Kenya Coast Tourism Conference, boosting regional tourism

After two years talking and discussing, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s Consulate in Mombasa have this year decided to give their Kenyan counterparts, real life experience of what The Pearl of Africa offers.

“At the beginning of the partnership with Kenya Coast tourism stakeholders, we observed that very few of them, and Kenyans generally, knew about Uganda’s tourism products.  For mountain gorillas, many of them confessed that they used to sell Rwanda.  This is despite the fact that Kenya is the number one source market for tourists to Uganda,” a Ugandan official said.

The real life experience has already started, but officially, November 20 will be the historic date when Uganda for the first time hosts the Uganda- Kenya Coast Tourism Conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo. The first two conferences were held in Kenya – in November 2022 in Mombasa and the second one in November 2023 in Diani, Kwale County.

The third conference will be held on 20th– 21st November 2024 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, under the theme “The Uganda- Kenya Coast partnership: Promoting job creation, inclusivity and sustainability”.

The Conference will be attended by over 500 public and private tourism stakeholders from Uganda, Kenya and beyond who will work out a strategy for joint promotion of tourism between Uganda and Kenya Coast.

The conference will equip the key tourism players from Uganda and the Kenya coastal region with first-hand experiences of the key tourism attractions so that they are in better position to market these attractions.

Another key objective will be to promote regional tourism, and popularize the Entebbe – Mombasa route operated by the Uganda Airlines.  Previously, the only available air connection to Uganda from the Kenya Coast was by Kenya Airways, through Nairobi.

Ahead of the Conference, seventy (70) tourism stakeholders from Kenya have started a familiarization trip to Uganda from 8th – 18th November 2024 where they will visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Semliki Hot Springs, Source of the Nile and Namugongo Martyrs Museum A golf tournament between Uganda and Kenya will be held on 9th November 2024 at Kampala Golf Club.

Souce:  ATTA  

Emirates ramps up operations in Africa to serve growing demand

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has further bolstered its presence across Africa, with the introduction of additional flights to Entebbe, Uganda; Addis Abba in Ethiopia; and Johannesburg, South Africa.

Since the inaugural flight into Africa with Cairo as its first destination in 1986, Emirates has progressively grown its presence on the continent and now serves 20 passenger and cargo gateways, boosting Africa’s connectivity and air transport market development. 

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said, “Africa has long been a priority region for Emirates, and we will deepen our strategic focus of expansion and continued investment on the continent, as an important anchor for our future network. The introduction of frequencies to our existing points in Uganda, South Africa and Ethiopia help support the region’s growth and provide critical links using Dubai as a key gateway to emerging economies across Asia and the Middle East.

“Over the last 30 years Emirates has played a pivotal role in the development of the region’s aviation and tourism sectors, not just through scaling our operations but by establishing strategic partnerships with local governments, tourism boards and likeminded airline partners across the travel ecosystem, to nurture the industry and realise its untapped potential.”

Increasing frequencies to maximize connectivity From 27 October, Emirates ramped up operations between Dubai and Uganda from five weekly flights to a daily service. Operated via a Boeing 777-300ER the additional flight will add 718 seats to and from Dubai-Entebbe every week, connecting to popular onwards destinations from Dubai such as Canada, the US, India and the UK, to name a few. As the only airline offering First Class in and out of Entebbe, the additional flights will enable more passengers to experience Emirates’ unrivalled experience with luxurious touches, a premium gastronomic selection of dishes and fine beverages, and one of the biggest screens in the sky, all in midst of comfort and privacy.

The move builds on Emirates two-decade long commitment to Uganda, a vibrant gem on the airline’s vast global network and up and coming tourism destination. At the 2024 Arabian Travel Market, Emirates signed an MoU with the Uganda Tourism Board, aiming to encourage a diverse range of international travellers to experience the destination’s abundance of natural, cultural and adventure attractions. The additional frequency will further support this, as Uganda continues to invest in building its tourism proposition.

Ringing in the new year, Emirates will also increase frequency in Ethiopia, with a daily flight connecting Dubai and Addis Abba from 1 January 2025. Visitor numbers to Ethiopia continue to grow, guided by the vision to make Ethiopia one of the top five tourist destinations in Africa by 2025. By boosting its flight frequencies, Emirates will provide more convenient access, particularly for travellers from the Middle East and Far East.

This will be swiftly followed by the fourth daily flight to Johannesburg, which, from 1 March 2025, will introduce a morning slot to and from South Africa’s largest and busiest international airport. The additional flight brings Emirates’ operations back to pre-pandemic levels, with 49 weekly flights into South Africa, one of the airline’s most in-demand destinations in Africa.

Once the additional frequencies are activated, Emirates will provide 161 weekly flights between African destinations and Dubai.

Tickets can be booked now on emirates.com, the Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents.

Expanding the network to serve more of Africa With 17 countries in Africa and a further 63 countries and territories globally, Emirates offers near-unrivalled connectivity, further amplified by its extensive partnership network. In Africa, the airline’s footprint expands to over 210 regional points through 5 codeshare and 18 interline partners, providing access to more regional points via frictionless, one-ticket travel and simplified baggage throughput.

As an example, in 2023 Emirates signed an interline agreement with Royal Air Maroc, providing travellers with 18 additional domestic points in Morocco, such as Fez, Tangiers, Marrakech and many others, as well as an additional 17 routes beyond Dubai on an interline basis.

In addition to offering access to smaller regional points across the continent, Emirates’ partnerships unlock access to unique and exclusive destinations too. Through its interline agreement with South African carrier Cemair, Emirates enables customers to visit stunning leisure points such as Margate and Plettenberg Bay, while Pro Flight Zambia unlocks once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in Lower Zambezi National Park.

Earlier this month, Emirates made its much-awaited return to Lagos, connecting Nigeria’s economic hub to its global network with a direct, daily flight. Enhancing premium travel options, Emirates is one of only two airlines offering First Class in and out of Lagos.

The airline’s cargo arm, Emirates SkyCargo, will also benefit from the additional passenger flights, which complement its eight weekly scheduled freighters enabling the swift, efficient and reliable movement of goods from Africa to the world. Providing unmatched flexibility to meet demand, Emirates SkyCargo deploys its freighters between six African destinations, to boost the cargo capacity as required. Likewise, to better manage capacity, Emirates SkyCargo moves general cargo from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban via trucks, to ensure goods move on customer’s timelines; the additional passenger flights will address these capacity constraints in each market, as the airline prepares for future growth, with the delivery of new freighters up until the end of 2026.

Source: Breaking Travel News

Air travel survey: Flight times and length drive booking choices

October 29, 2024

A recent BCD survey found that business travelers prioritize flight departure time, arrival time, and length when it comes to booking air travel. Convenience, flexibility and price also rank as top priorities. The survey, from August 2024, gathered insights from over 1,300 business travelers who took to the skies in the past 12 months.

Convenience is key

When it comes to air travel, convenience is a top priority. From seat selection to checked baggage, many travelers are willing to pay for extra comfort and flexibility. In fact, nearly half of those surveyed are opting for fully or partially refundable tickets, allowing them to manage unpredictable travel plans without stress. Priority boarding, fast-tracked security, and extra legroom also rank high among add-ons that business travelers are happy to splurge on. Negotiate for these amenities in your supplier conversations.

What influences flight choices?

No surprise here. Price is a major influence on flight selection, with 51% of travelers agreeing it affects their decisions. Four out of 10 travelers prioritize finding the cheapest flight available, even if it comes at the cost of fewer flexible options. The balancing act between comfort and cost continues to challenge corporate travelers, something to keep in mind when shaping travel policies.

But what stands out even more is how the time of departure, flight duration, and employer policy impact decisions. In fact, 71% of respondents cite scheduling as the most important factor, highlighting the need for policies that align with both traveler preferences and corporate goals. While some situations are unavoidable or out of anyone’s control, employers can improve the employee experience by making adjustments to their travel policy.

“A travel policy has the potential to drastically influence employee wellbeing and satisfaction,” said Teri Miller, executive vice president, Global Client Team at BCD. “Adding ancillaries covered by the company like priority boarding or lounge access can make traveling for work more enjoyable and less stressful for employees. Allowing a flexible schedule, work from home or time off after a business trip can also help your employees adjust after returning home.”

Class and duration: A snapshot of business travel

The majority of travelers use air travel for trips between two and six days. For short-haul flights under six hours, 88% of travelers opt for economy class. Business class, while more luxurious, is typically reserved for long-haul flights, with three out of 10 travelers choosing this option for extended trips. The survey’s data around service classes can offer valuable insights for organizations seeking to optimize both traveler comfort and cost-efficiency.

A sustainable approach?

Sustainability is a growing concern in the travel industry, but may not always be top-of-mind for business travelers. While 66% of respondents opt for direct flights (which are both convenient and eco-friendly), few actively choose flights based on carbon emissions, and only 16% are trying to fly less. With two-thirds of respondents admitting they rarely or never consider sustainability if it raises costs, there’s clearly room for improvement.

Olivia Ruggles Brise Vice President of Sustainability BCD

“From our last buyer survey on travel policy, we saw that nearly a quarter of buyers rank making their policy more sustainable as a top priority,” said Olivia Ruggles-Brise, vice president of Sustainability at BCD. “However, this research shows that travelers themselves are not prioritizing sustainability in the same way. Travel managers can influence their travelers’ behavior through encouraging or mandating sustainable measures, which often go hand in hand with traveler wellness. Direct flights, for instance, are more sustainable and less stressful for travelers. Though they may come at a higher cost, direct flights result in less emissions than indirect or stopover flights. On the other hand, while business class is better for traveler comfort, it may not be the most sustainable option. Prioritizing only trips that are vital and choosing business class for those trips can strike a balance, benefiting both traveler wellness and sustainability.”

Addressing traveler challenges and wellbeing

Nearly 70% of travelers report being satisfied with their company’s travel policy and preferred suppliers. However, challenges remain. From booking user-unfriendly tools to low-cost airlines that impact comfort, corporate travelers face frustrations that can hinder productivity. Travelers also experience physical discomfort, especially with overnight flights and long-haul drives immediately after landing. Employers have an opportunity to enhance traveler wellbeing by addressing these pain points.

Offering benefits like priority boarding, lounge access, and flexible post-trip schedules can improve the overall travel experience, boosting morale and productivity.

By understanding travelers’ needs and preferences, businesses can adapt their travel programs, ensuring a balance between cost control, traveler care and sustainable practices for the future. BCD’s Program Managers can help customers review their current travel policy, and our consulting division Advito also specializes in assessing, benchmarking and rewriting policies. Once updates are in place, it’s crucial to have a communications strategy that engages and educates travelers. Advito’s Engage experts can help craft a communication strategy that uses cutting-edge marketing tactics to ensure travelers are getting the message.

Source:

Kenya’s Push for Lower Tourism Taxes and New Increased Marketing

As the festive season approaches, Kenya’s tourism stakeholders are urging the government to consider tax reductions to make the country more competitive in the regional tourism landscape. This call for action comes as Kenya aims to capture more international tourist interest and position itself as an attractive destination among its East African neighbors, particularly Tanzania and South Africa.

At a recent event hosted by Tamarind Tree Hotel, General Manager John Musau advocated for a reduction in levies on tourism services, notably game drives, which are central to Kenya’s safari appeal. Musau highlighted that by reducing taxes on these services, Kenya could enhance its appeal to international visitors and offer more affordable travel experiences. This could help Kenya compete more effectively with neighboring countries known for their strong tourism offerings, such as Tanzania and South Africa.

The Need for a Competitive Edge in the Tourism Market

In today’s competitive travel landscape, where destinations are vying to attract more international tourists, the cost of travel services plays a critical role. For Kenya, lowering taxes on experiences like safaris and game drives can help position the country as a more budget-friendly choice without compromising the quality of its offerings. According to Musau, this tax reduction is vital to helping Kenya achieve its target of 3 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2024 and 5 million in the coming years.

Kenya’s tourism industry saw remarkable growth in 2023, welcoming 2 million arrivals. To maintain and increase this momentum, the tourism sector needs to remain accessible and attractive. Musau believes that a well-considered tax policy would support this objective, creating a favorable climate for tourists who may be deterred by high service costs.

Increased Marketing Budget: A Strategy for Greater Visibility

Besides tax reductions, Musau also stressed the importance of increased marketing funds for the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB). With a larger budget, KTB could implement more robust and far-reaching campaigns to promote Kenya on a global scale. This would allow the country to reach a wider audience of potential travelers, showcasing the variety and richness of Kenya’s attractions, from the famous Maasai Mara and coastal beaches to lesser-known gems.

An increased marketing budget would enable KTB to participate in more international tourism events, advertise Kenya’s tourism offerings, and launch digital campaigns to reach younger audiences who rely heavily on social media when choosing travel destinations. This is particularly important as the global tourism industry grows increasingly digital, with social media playing a significant role in inspiring travel decisions.

Aiming for 3 Million Tourists by 2024: Kenya’s Ambitious Target

Kenya has set an ambitious target to increase its tourist arrivals to 3 million by the end of 2024. The country’s tourism growth in 2023, with a recorded 2 million arrivals, indicates a strong upward trend. However, reaching the 2024 goal will require strategic adjustments, including making Kenya’s offerings more accessible and appealing through price reductions and improved visibility.

The goal to welcome 5 million visitors within the next few years further underscores the urgency to address these competitive challenges. Musau’s call for lower taxes and increased marketing investment reflects the determination within Kenya’s tourism sector to keep pace with regional competitors and meet the demands of today’s global travelers.

How a Competitive Tourism Sector Benefits Travelers

For travelers, lower taxes on services like safaris and game drives translate into more affordable and appealing travel options. Kenya’s famed wildlife tours, known for offering some of the world’s most iconic safari experiences, would become more accessible to a broader audience, from budget-conscious backpackers to families looking for meaningful travel experiences. Reduced travel costs also provide travelers with more flexibility to explore other activities, such as beach resorts along Kenya’s coast, cultural visits to Maasai communities, and hiking in the country’s scenic highlands.

Additionally, the increase in KTB’s marketing budget would enable Kenya to showcase these diverse experiences on a global scale. Enhanced promotional efforts could attract travelers from various backgrounds and demographics, expanding the country’s reach beyond traditional markets. This visibility not only makes Kenya a recognizable name in global tourism but also invites travelers to discover the country’s full range of attractions, from adventure tourism to eco-travel and cultural heritage sites.

The Global Impact of Kenya’s Tourism Strategy

Kenya’s call for lower tourism taxes and increased marketing funding has broader implications for the global travel industry. As more countries compete to attract international tourists, affordability and effective promotion have become key factors in decision-making for travelers. By investing in these areas, Kenya could influence other destinations to consider similar strategies, potentially creating a ripple effect within the East African region and beyond.

For instance, Tanzania and South Africa, Kenya’s closest competitors in the safari market, may also consider revising their pricing structures to retain their market shares. This regional competition could ultimately benefit travelers, as countries strive to provide better and more affordable experiences. The international travel industry may also witness a trend toward cost-efficient travel experiences that cater to the budget needs of today’s travelers without compromising on quality.

Kenya’s Positioning within East African Tourism

Lower taxes and a stronger marketing presence could reinforce Kenya’s position as a top choice in East African tourism, particularly for safari-goers. The country’s diverse offerings, from world-renowned wildlife reserves like the Maasai Mara to luxury beach resorts, make it uniquely suited to benefit from increased tourist interest. By establishing a competitive edge, Kenya can attract travelers who may otherwise choose other safari destinations in East Africa, supporting its goal to reach and surpass the 3 million tourist mark by 2024.

Challenges Ahead for Kenya’s Tourism Sector

Despite the potential benefits, Kenya’s tourism industry faces challenges that must be addressed to ensure the success of this strategy. The call for lower taxes, while favorable for tourists, may raise concerns over revenue for local governments and the national treasury. Balancing affordable travel experiences with sustainable revenue generation will be essential in implementing these changes effectively. Additionally, coordination among tourism stakeholders, local governments, and national policymakers will be crucial to ensure that this strategy benefits both the economy and the local communities involved in tourism.

Final Thoughts: A Win-Win for Travelers and Kenya’s Tourism Industry

As Kenya works toward its 2024 and long-term tourism goals, stakeholders in the industry hope that a combination of lower taxes and more prominent marketing will make the country a highly competitive destination for travelers worldwide. With this strategic approach, travelers will have more affordable access to Kenya’s stunning wildlife, rich culture, and iconic landscapes, while Kenya stands to gain increased international visibility and a robust economic boost from tourism.

Kenya’s push for competitive tax policies and enhanced marketing illustrates how countries can adapt to meet the evolving preferences of global travelers. For tourists looking to explore Africa, this initiative may open doors to more accessible and memorable experiences, from game drives to coastal escapes. Kenya’s approach could very well inspire other destinations to evaluate their strategies, setting a new benchmark for travel affordability and appeal in the tourism sector.

Source: Travel and Tour World

Dubai ‘now year-round destination’

By Lisa James

08/11/2024

Home » Dubai ‘now year-round destination’

Dubai has now firmly established itself as a year-round destination, with demand for the summer months increasing over the past two years, according to the destination’s tourism department.

Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism Senior Vice-President of International Operations Hoor Al Khaja said the UK is the largest source market for Dubai within western Europe. Between January and September this year, 922,000 Brits visited Dubai, an increase of 12% year-on-year.

Speaking at World Travel Market in London, Hoor said: “We’re seeing very healthy demand for Dubai, in growing numbers and we’re increasingly seeing that it’s becoming a year-round destination.”

She said demand for the summer months has increased since COVID – and particularly since around 2022.

“There is a lot more awareness about what there is to do in the summer. It’s very family friendly, very safe with air-conditioned spaces. It is an interesting mix of people coming in for the summer. Historically we were targeting our messaging towards families, but it is a very popular summer destination for couples as well,” she said.

“Demand is increasing, but unlike mature tourism cities, our supply keeps increasing too.”

New developments include the Real Madrid World theme park, which opened in April, while the new Jumeirah property, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, is due to open by February 2025.

Hoor said 25% of visitors to Dubai are repeat visitors to Dubai, and the Department is running a stopover campaign in the second quarter of 2025, in collaboration with Emirates. The campaign will feature a ‘global celebrity who resonates in the UK’, she added.

Recent figures from flight data analysts Cirium showed a record number of seats on flights departing the UK in the third quarter of this year, with Dubai the most popular destination.

Source: Travel Gossip

Tourists exempted from declaring IMEI numbers upon arrival

NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 8 – The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has exempted tourists from declaring the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of their gadgets upon arrival, aiming to maintain seamless entry for visitors while enhancing tax compliance.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano emphasized Kenya’s role as a gateway to East Africa and its positioning as a regional hub for tourism and business, underscoring the need for easy accessibility.

“KRA has announced that tourists will NOT be required to declare their gadgets’ IMEI numbers upon arrival. Kenya’s strategic location as the gateway to East Africa positions it as a regional hub for tourism and business and must therefore remain easily accessible,” said Miano in a Friday statement.

Miano noted her collaboration with relevant authorities to prioritize a smooth, welcoming experience for visitors to Magical Kenya.

This exemption comes after KRA’s November 6 directive, which requires passengers entering Kenya to declare their mobile phones, including IMEI numbers, as a new tax compliance measure starting January 1, 2025.

The regulation aims to strengthen tax compliance and reinforce Kenya’s mobile device market integrity.

The directive will require all importers and assemblers to submit detailed entries—such as model descriptions, quantities, and IMEI numbers of mobile devices—through KRA’s Customs portal. Compliance will also include obtaining permits from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

KRA has advised importers and stakeholders to familiarize themselves with these requirements to ensure compliance and a smooth importation process.

Source: Capital FM

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