As AirAsia’s inaugural flight to Nairobi approaches, excitement is reaching a fever pitch, and for good reasons! Kenya is not only the first African country that AirAsia will fly to, but also the gateway to a groundbreaking connection between the continents of Africa and Asia.
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A new Coast Tourism circuit in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has been launched.
The initiative intends to create a robust National, County governments and private sector strategy to increase the number of tourists. It will involve rigorous marketing of available destinations both locally and internationally, besides creating more appealing packages.
During the launch CS Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano said the move will involve rigorous marketing and resources mobilisation by all stakeholders. “We want to be more organized, we are going to address issues and come up with a unified work plan, “said CS Miano. She said the country had been hard hit by COVID 19 leading to low numbers of visitors.
The CS said the industry has since recovered and the ministry is targeting 2.5 m visitors in 2024. The target is to reach 3 million by 2026 and 5 million by the year 2027. “Tourism is the biggest earner of foreign currency, we want to train our youths to become goodwill ambassadors, their innovation and creativity will drive the industry growth, “said the CS.
The CS later paid a courtesy call to Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Shariff Nassir CS Miano said the partnership with Mombasa was very crucial as the county was a top tourism destination. “We look forward to having a robust interaction and have results through an increase in the number of tourists, “said Miano.
The Governor said the county intends to put up more development at Mama Ngina park and urged the national government to revert it to county management. He said the new partnership will increase the number of tourists visiting Mombasa as a top destination. He said the newly launched circuit will bring together teams from different counties to come up with a unified strategy.
Amidst the sun-kissed shores of Mombasa, Kenya, the 19th Meeting of the East African Community (EAC) Sectoral Council on Transport, Communications, and Meteorology is in full swing, with a pivotal focus on liberalizing the Upper Airspace and driving down airfares across the region.
The agenda spans discussions on the status of crucial regional initiatives encompassing railways, roads, maritime, communications, and meteorology sub-sectors.
In a momentous address during the inaugural session on Tuesday, Hon. Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth, the EAC Deputy Secretary General overseeing Infrastructure, Productive, Social, and Political Sectors, underscored the Community’s strides towards a harmonized airspace.
The completion of Phase One marks a landmark achievement, paving the way for the interoperability of air navigation systems within the region.
Embracing the liberalization of air transport services within the EAC heralds a new era where national carriers can traverse the region with enhanced freedom.
However, despite the potential advantages of air travel in East Africa, exorbitant airfares pose a formidable barrier, with routes like Nairobi to Entebbe, Nairobi to Kigali, and Nairobi to Dar es Salaam ranking among the costliest globally per seat.
The financial turbulence of high airfares
A staggering 43% of air ticket prices in the EAC are attributed to regulatory charges, taxes, landing fees, and other levies, with regulatory fees alone accounting for up to 24% of the total cost.
The prohibitive pricing not only dissuades potential travelers but also hampers economic growth, contributing to the region’s high cost of conducting business.
Insights gleaned from a study by the African Development Bank underscore the deterrent effect of elevated ticket prices, dissuading nearly 30% of prospective air passengers in the region.
Experts advocate for the removal of tariffs to potentially reduce air transport costs to below $100 per route, fostering increased connectivity and economic vitality
Quantitative analyses reveal the transformative power of liberalization, with projections indicating a 9% reduction in average fares and a substantial 41% uptick in flight frequencies, stimulating heightened passenger demand.
The envisioned liberalization among EAC member states holds the promise of generating over 46,000 jobs and injecting a significant US$202.1 million annually into the GDP.
Hon. Ariik, standing in for EAC Secretary General Hon. Veronica Nduva, emphasizes the urgency of advancing the remaining phases to fully liberalize the air transport sector.
Acknowledging ongoing infrastructure enhancements at various airports, including international hubs in Hoima, Dodoma, Bugesera, Melchior Ndadaye, Juba, and N’djili, he champions South Sudan’s strides in aviation legislation as a model for regional progress
While applauding the momentum towards reduced airfares, Hon. Ariik advocates for broader participation in the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) to streamline intra-continental travel.
With only three regional countries currently part of SAATM, he calls upon all nations to expedite their inclusion in this pivotal initiative, poised to revolutionize air travel dynamics across the continent.
IATA released the results of its 2024 Global Passenger Survey, revealing that travelers continue to prioritize convenience and speed. For a smoother travel experience, they are eager to use biometric identification and complete some travel processes before reaching the airport.
“Passengers want flexibility and transparency when planning and booking travel, plus speed and convenience at the airport. More are embracing biometrics, digital wallets, and off-airport processes to make it happen,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Safety, and Security.
Planning, Booking and Payment
68% said proximity to the airport was their top priority when selecting their departure airport, followed by minimizing total travel time ( 33% ) and getting the best ticket price ( 25% ).
71% said they book travel online or via a mobile app, with 53% preferring to use the airline’s website / app and only 16% preferring human interaction.
32% said they wanted to have all travel information consolidated in one place during the pre-travel process.
79% prefer to pay for travel with a credit or debit card, followed by digital wallets at 20%, and instant payment solutions, such as IATA Pay, at 7%.
Convenience was the main reason passengers chose a particular payment method ( 70% ), followed by benefits ( 39% ) and security ( 33% ).
Passengers prioritize convenience in the planning, booking, and payment phase of travel. For this convenience, they may accept some higher costs, and they are increasingly willing to use technologies, such as digital wallets. IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative is helping airlines to deliver greater customer centricity based on the foundational work of New Distribution Capability and the conversion to Offers and Orders. The Airline Retailing Maturity Index supports airlines in their distribution and payment transformation.
“Technology continues to change the way people plan, book and pay for travel. Travelers expect the same conveniences when shopping for travel that they get in any other online shopping experience. That means simplicity, clarity, and with options to meet their preferences while keeping their data secure. The industry is stepping up to meet the demand for greater customer centricity through IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative. Passengers will experience its positive impact progressively in the very near future,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.
Airport
70% said they want to reach their boarding gate in 30 minutes or less when traveling with just a carry-on; 74% expect it to take no longer than 45 minutes with a checked bag.
85% said they are willing to share immigration data i.e. passport, visa with authorities before departure to speed up airport process. And 89% are interested in a trusted traveler program to expedite security screening.
45% said immigration procedures should be completed before reaching the airport, and 36% feel the same about check-in. Additionally, 70% of passengers said they’d be more likely to check-in a bag if they could do so in advance.
46% of travelers experienced airport processes using biometric identification. The highest usage is seen at entry and exit immigration checkpoints ( 43% ). 84% of users were satisfied. And 75% prefer using biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes.
50% said they are concerned about data protection and 39% would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of their data’s security.
IATA’s One ID initiative is helping the industry to respond to traveler desires for faster processes and less hassle on the way to their aircraft, securely powered by biometrics and digital identity.
“The clear message from travelers is that they expect to board their planes faster with technology and smarter processes beginning well before they reach the airport. And the good news is that we are making this happen. Already travelers can arrive at the airport ready to fly with admissibility checks completed. And biometrics and digital identity can deliver a paperless experience once at the airport. That’s great for passengers. Importantly, the greater efficiency will help airport infrastructure to better cope with the growth in passenger numbers, helping to make the business case for adopting these new technologies and processes even more compelling,” said Careen.
Digital solutions are preferred by younger generations
Under-25s are considerably more proactive in using technology to improve their travel but want assurances on security.
51% would choose digital wallets for payment, far above the global average of 20%.
90% expressed interest in using a smartphone with a digital wallet, passport, and loyalty cards for booking, payment, and airport navigation, surpassing the global average of 77%.
48% prefer biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes, compared with 43% of those aged 56-75.
50% of under-25s would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of data security, versus the global average of 39%.
Free Movement of Persons is an integral part of the African integration and along with the African Passport is one of the flagship projects of Agenda 2063.
Pursuant to this goal of integration, in January 2018 the Protocol to the Treaty establishing the African Economic Community relating to free movement of persons, right of residence and right of establishment was adopted by the AU Assembly. This was followed in March 2018 with the Agreement Establishing the African Free Trade Area, the Protocol on Trade in Goods, the Protocol on Trade in Services and the Protocol on Rules and Procedures on the Settlement of Disputes.
As a follow up to this, the African Union (AU) and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) have developed a draft joint continental strategy to accelerate the Right of Entry for the Protocol to the treaty establishing the African Economic Communities relating to the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment. The strategy aims to ensure that RECs and Member States popularise and promote the adopted African Passport as one of the key mechanisms through which free movement of persons will be realised.
The implementation of the Protocol will evolve through three phases namely, right of entry, right of residence and right of establishment and the introduction of the African passport adopted during the February 2019 AU Summit, will act as a major catalyst for the Protocol especially the right of entry, according to AU Commissioner for Political Affairs Ms. Minata Samate Cessouma.
33 Member States have so far signed the protocol, and 4 ratifications have been deposited by Rwanda, Niger, Mali and Sao Tome and Principe. Technical specifications of the African Passport were also developed in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), RECs and Member States.
In a significant move to elevate Dubai’s global tourism appeal, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Hilton have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focusing on enhancing visibility and refining service excellence in the city’s hospitality sector. This partnership aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda, D33, aimed at positioning Dubai as a top destination for both leisure and business, and further exemplifies DET and Hilton’s commitment to creating premium experiences for international visitors.
The MoU establishes a foundation for joint marketing initiatives, emphasising Dubai’s unique offerings through global advertising campaigns and social media. By incorporating seasonal travel packages, the partnership will showcase Dubai’s signature attractions while offering Hilton Honors loyalty program members exclusive Dubai experiences. Hilton, with over 195 million Honors members worldwide, will leverage DET’s resources, particularly in team training offered through Dubai College of Tourism. This will ensure Hilton staff are skilled in cultural awareness and customer service, elevating the standard of guest experiences throughout Dubai.
His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), highlighted the role of Hilton in Dubai’s tourism evolution, emphasising that this MoU will bolster Dubai’s presence on the world stage while enhancing service quality within the city. This collaboration exemplifies Dubai’s culture of public-private partnership and strengthens the city’s tourism ecosystem. Through this partnership, more global travellers are expected to discover Dubai’s offerings, fostering advocacy and encouraging repeat visits.
Hilton, a global hospitality leader with 24 properties across nine brands in Dubai, will bring its extensive industry expertise to this strategic partnership. Guy Hutchinson, Hilton’s President for the Middle East and Africa, commended Dubai’s leadership in tourism innovation and Hilton’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s vision for unmatched hospitality. Hilton looks forward to participating in DET’s training programs to cultivate the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Dubai’s tourism sector has shown impressive growth, with the city recording a 7.5% increase in international visitors from January to August 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, when a record 17.15 million overnight visitors were welcomed. The hotel industry has achieved an average occupancy rate of 76.2% this year, reflecting Dubai’s sustained popularity as a premier travel destination. The DET-Hilton partnership is poised to enhance Dubai’s hospitality standards, supporting Dubai’s position as a global tourism leader.
Before you pack your bags for your next trip, take a moment to plan and acquire the right travel insurance.
In Summary
Road trips have become a popular weekend activity for individuals and friends, who often drive to neighbouring counties and towns in countries like Uganda and Tanzania.
Kenyan companies have capitalised on these developments by adapting travel products that cater to various market groups.
In recent times, significant investments in road, railway, and air transport have revolutionised mobility across East Africa.
Kenyan companies have capitalised on these developments by adapting travel products that cater to various market groups.
Road trips have become a popular weekend activity for individuals and friends, who often drive to neighbouring counties and towns in countries like Uganda and Tanzania.
Families now routinely plan holidays well in advance, especially to popular coastal regions like Mombasa and Diani, thanks to the convenience provided by the Madaraka Express railway service and the modernization of the Nairobi-Mombasa road.
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Additionally, annual religious events have also spurred inter-regional travel, with Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda benefiting greatly from this.
For instance, Uganda’s Martyr’s Day attracts pilgrims from across the region to Namugongo, while the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre is a popular visit destination for many Kenyans.
Furthermore, the visa-free agreement between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda has facilitated extended stays for Kenyans across the region, whether for business, tourism, or education.
The completion of the 500-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway has also opened up tourist resort cities such as Kilifi and Lamu, enhancing local tourism
Looking into the future, discussions to open up Africa’s 54-country borders courtesy of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area are expected to revolutionise travel at an unprecedented scale, expanding travel bucket lists and tourism numbers across different countries.
This surge in travel underscores the importance of travel insurance.
It’s often seen as an unnecessary expense, but it can be a lifesaver in case of unforeseen circumstances.
It provides a financial shield, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about the loss emanating from travel-related potential risks.
With coverage spanning from medical expenses, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, you have the assurance of protection in the event of unforeseen occurrences.
One of the lesser-emphasised benefits of travel insurance is the 24/7 assistance service, which can help with lost passports, legal matters, or other emergencies, and even offer third-party aid to make your travel smoother and more enjoyable.
This service ensures that travellers have access to support at any time, no matter where they are in the world.
For instance, if you misplace your passport, the assistance service can guide you through the process of obtaining a replacement quickly.
In case of legal issues, they can provide advice or connect you with local legal experts.
Additionally, travel insurance can assist one in taking care of medical emergencies by coordinating with local healthcare providers and arranging for necessary treatments.
Travel activities like hiking, skiing, or scuba diving increase the risk of accidents.
Travel insurance also provides peace of mind by reducing anxiety and stress levels, allowing travellers to enjoy their journey knowing they are protected against anticipated risks.
It also ensures unexpected costs don’t derail your travel plans and budget.
Remember the specific coverage offered by travel insurance policies can vary greatly.
It’s essential to read the policy carefully and choose one that aligns with your travel plans and needs.
Before you pack your bags for your next trip, take a moment to plan and acquire the right travel insurance.
Travel Agents, travel consultants, travel advisors, travel specialists, and travel counselors are terms used interchangeably to describe the travel professional who helps to arrange travel for clients. Travel itself has always been in a state of transition.
The industry has evolved significantly since travelers carried paper tickets to the airport, paid in cash, and engaged in a tedious back-and-forth process to confirm their travel plans. What we may now view as cumbersome was once the height of convenience, given the technology available at the time.
In days past, far fewer people traveled compared to today, and the role of the travel agent was central to the entire process. Since the first travel agency was established in 1865 by Thomas Cook, a travel agent operated as a broker connecting travelers to transportation, accommodation and experiences for a commission.
The rise of technology has transformed the industry, moving it from the traditional model of booking travel through a travel agent located in a physical office at a corner street to a digital space where travelers can book trips from the comfort of their homes.
In the past, with limited information available to the general public, it was the travel agent’s job to paint a vivid picture of the destination for potential travellers. Travellers relied entirely on these agents for advice and information that today can easily be accessed online.
Clients no longer needed to rely on agents to convey information about destinations; instead, they could easily find it online. To stay relevant, travel agents had to evolve into travel advisors. This new role leverages their technical knowledge, which includes creating tailored travel packages based on a deep understanding of the traveller’s profile and the destination.
A professional travel advisor can anticipate and fulfill a traveller’s desires, ensuring a satisfying experience, says Nicanor Sabula, CEO of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA).
While one might assume that the advancements in technology would eliminate the need for human expertise, technology’s greatest strength is also its biggest weakness.
The limitless information available online also presents limitless possibilities for misinformation.
The online space is fraught with risks that only a trusted advisor can mitigate. Today’s travellers depend on travel advisors to verify their travel arrangements and provide technical advice on destination requirements.
Julie Dabaly Scott, Managing Director of CWT Kenya and Bunson Travel, says the role of a travel agent has undergone a significant transformation from simply booking and organizing travel arrangements to becoming a trusted travel advisor. As a result, the modern travel agent’s value now lies in offering personalized advice, insider knowledge, and tailored experiences that go beyond what can be easily found online.
She says this evolution in the role has led travel advisors to approach their work differently. In the past, the primary focus was on securing travel arrangements. Now, the role has expanded to encompass a holistic approach to travel planning. This includes assisting with travel insurance, visa applications, restaurant reservations, special event planning, and even providing support during the trip itself.
Tom Kitingu of Grato Travels says Kenyan travellers fall into two distinct categories. The first group consists of those with the resources but little time. These travellers don’t have the luxury to shop around for the best deals but demand customized experiences tailored to their tight schedules.
The second category includes budget travellers who, while knowledgeable about their needs, are willing to forgo certain luxuries but insist on getting the best value for their money.
At KATA, says Sabula, their role is to equip members with the tools and knowledge needed understand the preferences of today’s traveller.
KATA exists to protect the interests of travel agents and the traveling public by educating members, holding them accountable to professional standards, connecting them to opportunities, and representing them to authorities and other stakeholders in foreign policy formulation.
Travellers have increasingly adopted the internet as their primary source of travel inspiration, moving away from traditional travel agents who once served as key intermediaries for information and bookings. A growing number of travellers now opt for websites, AI-generated itineraries, and direct online bookings.
A veteran travel professional, Julie says the evolution of travel advisory services is an ongoing process. While some agents continue to adapt to this shift, others may face challenges. Julie expresses her optimism about the future of travel advisory services and emphasizes that the ability to adapt to changing market demands will be key to thriving in the industry.
Original coverage on Sunday Standard, October 27, 2024
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya, has once again solidified its position as a premier aviation hub by being crowned Africa’s Leading Airport at the 2024 Africa Gala Ceremony of the World Travel Awards. The prestigious event, held last week at the breathtaking Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Diani Beach, Kenya, celebrated the finest in African travel, tourism, and hospitality, with JKIA receiving top honors for its outstanding facilities, operational efficiency, and service excellence.
The World Travel Awards, regarded as the most esteemed accolade in the global travel industry, highlight organizations that push the boundaries of excellence. For JKIA, this recognition reaffirms its status as a key gateway to Africa and a symbol of Kenya’s growing influence in international travel and aviation.
A Grand Event at Diani Beach The 2024 Africa Gala Ceremony took place at the stunning Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort, nestled along the pristine Diani Beach on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline. With its luxurious setting, beautiful white sands, and world-class hospitality, the resort provided a fitting backdrop for an evening of glamour, celebration, and anticipation. Industry leaders, dignitaries, and professionals from across Africa gathered to honor the continent’s top achievers in travel and tourism.
As the nominees for Africa’s Leading Airport were announced, the room was filled with excitement, but it was JKIA’s name that was met with resounding applause as it claimed the coveted title once again. This win continues a streak of recognition for the airport, which has been lauded for its steady progress in transforming into a modern, passenger-friendly facility that meets international standards.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport: A Gateway to Africa Located in Nairobi, JKIA is Kenya’s largest and busiest airport, serving as a major hub for air travel in East Africa and beyond. Named after Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, the airport is strategically positioned as a key transit point connecting Africa to the rest of the world. It is a crucial hub for Kenya Airways, the country’s national carrier, and numerous international airlines that operate flights between Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
JKIA handles millions of passengers annually, with its state-of-the-art facilities offering travelers a seamless experience. In recent years, the airport has undergone significant upgrades and expansions, enhancing its capacity to handle increasing passenger volumes and cargo. These improvements have positioned JKIA not only as a regional leader but also as a competitive player on the global aviation stage.
Key Improvements and Modernization Efforts JKIA’s recognition as Africa’s Leading Airport comes on the back of extensive efforts to improve its infrastructure, services, and operational efficiency. The airport has invested heavily in modernizing its terminals, enhancing security protocols, and ensuring a smooth passenger experience.
Some of the notable upgrades include the expansion of Terminal 1A, which serves international passengers and has been designed to handle over 7 million passengers annually. The terminal is equipped with modern check-in counters, spacious waiting areas, and enhanced retail and dining options, providing travelers with comfort and convenience. Additionally, JKIA has made significant strides in adopting technology to streamline operations, including e-gates, automated security checks, and improved baggage handling systems.
Safety and security have also been a top priority for the airport, with the installation of advanced surveillance systems and strict security protocols to ensure passenger and cargo safety. These efforts have played a crucial role in JKIA achieving global recognition, not just from the World Travel Awards, but also from other international aviation bodies.
An Economic and Tourism Hub JKIA’s importance extends far beyond being a mere transport facility—it plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy and tourism industry. As the primary entry point for international visitors, JKIA connects Kenya to the world, facilitating business travel, tourism, and trade. The airport’s connectivity is vital for promoting Kenya as a premier tourist destination, known for its world-renowned national parks, wildlife safaris, and beautiful beaches like Diani, where the World Travel Awards 2024 were held.
The airport’s role in bolstering Kenya’s economy cannot be overstated. It serves as a key link for cargo, including fresh produce exports like flowers and fruits, which are shipped to markets worldwide. As JKIA continues to expand its cargo handling capabilities, it enhances Kenya’s standing as a global trade hub.
A Bright Future for JKIA Being named Africa’s Leading Airport for 2024 is both an acknowledgment of JKIA’s past achievements and an indication of its bright future. The airport has already announced plans for further expansion, with the construction of additional terminals and runways to accommodate growing passenger and cargo volumes. These developments are aimed at transforming JKIA into a world-class aviation facility that can compete with the best airports globally.
The win also signals Kenya’s commitment to improving its infrastructure and enhancing its position as a leading destination for international travel. With tourism on the rise and Nairobi growing as a major business hub in Africa, JKIA’s role as a critical facilitator of travel and commerce will only grow stronger.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport’s recognition as Africa’s Leading Airport at the 2024 Africa Gala Ceremony of the World Travel Awards is a testament to the airport’s relentless drive for excellence. With modern infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and a strong focus on passenger experience, JKIA is shaping the future of aviation in Africa. Its continued success not only boosts Kenya’s tourism and economy but also strengthens the country’s reputation as a key player in global travel.
As the airport looks ahead to further expansion and innovation, JKIA is set to remain a vital gateway to Africa, welcoming millions of travelers each year and contributing to the continent’s growing prominence on the world stage.
For the third consecutive year, Kenya Airways (KQ), has been recognized as a Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards 2024. Kenya Airways was awarded as Africa’s Leading Airline in four categories namely:
• Africa’s Leading Airline 2024:
• Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class 2024
• Africa’s Leading Airline Brand 2024
• Africa’s Leading Inflight Magazine 2024: Msafiri
The World Travel Awards recognizes leading organisations across the travel and tourism economy, including airlines, hotels, tour operators, travel agents, tourist attractions and safaris. These are organisations that have demonstrated innovation and dedication in providing exceptional travel experiences. Most notably, it seeks to recognize African tourism brands that have not only recovered but thrived in the post-pandemic era, demonstrating their resilience.
Speaking at the event, KQ CEO Allan Kilavuka said he was honored and grateful at winning the awards.
“Winning this means so much to us, as it’s not only as a validation of our hard work and efforts but also serves as a motivation to continue striving for excellence. We soared beyond expectations, reaffirming our position as the Pride of Africa.
