In a move that marks a significant step forward for the travel and tourism sector, Nicanor Sabula, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) for a three-year term.

The appointment, announced by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano on Friday, is part of a wave of new leadership placements across various ministries aimed at strengthening service delivery and aligning institutions with the government’s broader development goals.

Mr. Sabula joins the TRA board alongside Fred Kaigua, bringing with him over two decades of industry expertise. As the CEO of KATA, a position he has held for several years, Sabula has played a pivotal role in steering the 45-year-old association through transformative milestones, including digital innovation, strategic partnerships, and robust policy advocacy on behalf of Kenya’s travel agents.

“This appointment is not only a recognition of Nicanor’s leadership but a major win for KATA and the entire travel agency sector,” said a KATA Chairman, Dr. Joseph Kithitu. “It creates a direct channel for the voice of travel agents to be heard at the regulatory level.”

The Tourism Regulatory Authority, mandated to regulate and coordinate the tourism sector in Kenya, plays a critical role in setting standards and ensuring compliance across all tourism-related services. With Sabula on the board, stakeholders anticipate greater collaboration between regulators and industry players.

His appointment comes at a time when the tourism sector is seeking to rebound and reposition itself, with a renewed focus on sustainability, innovation, and stakeholder-driven growth.

“Having a seasoned industry voice like Sabula’s at the TRA is timely,” said one KATA Member. “It reflects a commitment to grounding regulation in the realities of the market and travel trends.”

For KATA, which has represented the interests of travel agents in Kenya for 45 years, this development signifies increased influence, deeper policy engagement, and stronger positioning in national tourism development agendas.

The appointments took effect on May 30, 2025.

Tanzania has impressively outperformed its goal of attracting five million tourists by 2025, welcoming 5.3 million visitors by April of that year. This accomplishment represents a seven percent increase over the original target and was reached three months ahead of the fiscal year’s end, showcasing the country’s rapid growth and rising status as a premier travel destination in Africa.

After the global disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Tanzania’s tourism sector has demonstrated exceptional resilience and recovery. This success stems from targeted promotional campaigns, infrastructure enhancements, and strategic collaborations that have effectively drawn visitors from across the globe, fueling steady increases in both tourist numbers and revenue.

A major driver behind this surge is the growing influx of travelers from China. In the current fiscal year, approximately seventy-one thousand tourists from the Far East journeyed to Tanzania, encouraged in part by a popular travel documentary titled Amazing Tanzania. The film, which features well-known Chinese actors, vividly portrays Tanzania’s breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, significantly boosting interest and travel bookings among Chinese audiences.

India also remains a crucial source market for Tanzania’s tourism. In 2024 alone, over sixty-three thousand Indian tourists visited the country, with demand remaining strong as bookings for upcoming years, including 2026 through 2028, continue to fill rapidly. This indicates a growing confidence in Tanzania’s travel offerings and its appeal as a long-term destination.

From an economic perspective, tourism remains a cornerstone of Tanzania’s growth strategy. Revenues have surged from USD 1.3 billion in 2021 to more than USD 3.9 billion in 2024. Key institutions such as Tanzania National Park (TANAPA), Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism’s digital platforms have collectively generated 912.9 billion Tanzanian shillings, surpassing ninety-four percent of the annual revenue target well before the fiscal year’s close.

To sustain this momentum, Tanzania continues to actively promote its attractions through partnerships with international airlines, hosting high-profile sporting events, producing engaging travel documentaries, and organizing special cultural festivities. These efforts broaden the country’s appeal and attract a diverse range of international visitors.

In a prestigious recognition of its growing prominence, Tanzania will host the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA) gala ceremony in Dar es Salaam, the commercial hub. Scheduled for June 28, 2025, at the Johari Rotana Hotel, this event will honor leading tourism operators from across Africa and the Indian Ocean region, further highlighting Tanzania’s key role in the continent’s travel industry.

Policy reforms have also contributed to the sector’s vitality. Unnecessary fees and tariffs that previously posed challenges for investors, tour operators, and other stakeholders have been eliminated. For example, park entry fees for licensed tour guides have been removed, provided they hold official accreditation. These measures reduce operational costs and enhance the visitor experience, fostering industry growth.

Tanzania’s remarkable achievements reinforce its status as a top-tier African tourism destination. The country’s abundant natural beauty—from iconic national parks and wildlife reserves to vibrant cultural sites—continues to captivate travelers worldwide. This sustained tourism expansion not only bolsters the national economy but also elevates Tanzania’s global reputation.

Looking forward, Tanzania is committed to sustainable tourism that balances economic development with environmental stewardship and community welfare. This approach ensures that its unique heritage is preserved for future generations while maintaining unforgettable experiences for visitors.

In summary, Tanzania’s early surpassing of its five million tourist goal marks a significant milestone. Backed by innovative marketing, strong international demand, and progressive reforms, the nation is well-positioned to maintain its upward trajectory and solidify its place as one of Africa’s most sought-after travel destinations in the coming years.

Source: TravelandTourWorld

The Kenya Simbas have received a major boost ahead of their Rugby World Cup qualification campaign, following the unveiling of Kenya Airways as their official sponsor. The partnership, valued at Ksh15 million in kind, was officially announced during a ceremony attended by key stakeholders from the Kenya Rugby Union and Kenya Airways.

The sponsorship will play a key role in easing the team’s travel logistics as they begin preparations for the global qualifiers. The Simbas are set to leave for a three-week training camp in South Africa next week before returning home and later heading to Uganda on July 3rd for the Rugby World Cup qualifying matches.

KRU CEO Thomas Odundo, speaking during the launch, expressed the union’s gratitude. “Thank you very much on behalf of KRU,” he said, acknowledging the critical role the national carrier will play in supporting the Simbas’ mission.

KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, saying, “KQ has been with KRU in the past and we are glad to have you back. It’s an integral sponsorship having an airline as a partner as travel costs are largely reduced. As the Simbas begin their World Cup qualification journey, this is a big step up. We are very grateful and we hope the partnership will extend to other teams like the U20, Shujaa, and the Lionnesses.”

Kenya Airways’ Chief Commercial and Customer Officer Julius Thairu reaffirmed the airline’s commitment, stating, “We are back. On behalf of our CEO, we are happy and proud to be part of the Simbas’ journey as they seek a place in the World Cup. We not only focus on sponsorship but also on socioeconomic development. There is a lot of talent in Kenya, and as a brand, we would like to help nurture and showcase it. We are going to walk this journey together—this is just a start, and we are also looking forward to supporting the other national teams.”

Simbas captain George Nyambua spoke on behalf of the team, expressing deep appreciation for the partnership. “We really want to say thank you. This sponsorship will have a big impact on our qualification journey. We believe we are going to qualify and make you proud.”

With renewed support and a strong sense of belief, the Simbas now set their sights on making history as they prepare for the World Cup qualification.

Source: Kenya Rugby

Kenya is set to become the epicenter of Africa’s tourism renaissance as it prepares to host over 6,500 delegates from 40 countries at the 15th edition of the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKT).

Set to take place from October 1–3, 2025, the event is poised to enhance intra-African collaboration and sustainable growth as the driving forces behind the continent’s tourism sector.

This year’s expo, themed Sustainable Tourism Growth: Unlocking Africa’s Potential marks a significant milestone in the region’s tourism journey. It promises to be the most expansive and inclusive edition.

The 2025 edition will convene over 200 high-quality international buyers and 400 exhibitors for three days of intensive networking, investment discussions, and business-to-business engagements. A major highlight will be the integration of the Africa Tourism Investment Forum (ATIF), creating one of the continent’s most comprehensive tourism trade platforms.

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement event held on Monday at Nairobi Hotel, State Department of Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa underscored the expo’s core role in shaping Africa’s tourism Sector.

“MKTE 2025 is not just a Kenyan celebration; it is a continental milestone,” said PS Ololtuaa, adding, “Over the past 15 years, this platform has evolved into a catalyst for regional tourism transformation. It is imperative that this year, we make it a pan-African endeavour.”

He emphasized that MKTE’s ability to facilitate regional cooperation, spur new market linkages and expose local stakeholders to global travel trends has been instrumental in accelerating the sector’s post-pandemic recovery.

“With Africa emerging as one of the fastest-growing tourism regions globally, we must adopt collaborative approaches that leverage our shared strengths while addressing common vulnerabilities,” he added.

PS Ololtuaa urged tourism stakeholders to move beyond competition and embrace cross-border synergies.

“We must see our neighbours not as rivals but as partners in a shared vision. Tourism remains a critical pillar of our economies, and by working together, we can unlock Africa’s true potential,” he said.

Concurrently, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chairman Francis Gichaba described the 15th anniversary as a reflective point for Kenya’s tourism leadership.

“For 15 years, MKTE has demonstrated how Kenya leads not just in safari experiences but in thought leadership on sustainable tourism,” said Gichaba, adding that this year’s expo will showcase Kenya’s commitment to building a resilient tourism sector that grows with and for Africa.

Making her remarks, Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei noted that sustainability and innovation will be at the heart of the event.

She revealed that MKTE 2025 will implement a refined digital matchmaking system, designed to foster more meaningful and productive business connections between exhibitors and buyers.

“Building on the success of MKTE 2024, which attracted 4,000 delegates and facilitated thousands of business meetings, we are raising the bar in 2025,” said Chepkemei.

“We are embedding technology and sustainability into every aspect of the expo to ensure it not only delivers value to participants but also reflects responsible event management practices,” she added.

Additionally, Chepkemei stated that MKTE 2025 is more than an event describing it as a movement and a call for Africa to lead, innovate and thrive together in tourism.

Kenya’s renewed focus on intra-African partnerships comes at a crucial time. According to 2024 tourism data, African countries collectively contributed 40.8 percent of international tourist arrivals to Kenya, reaffirming the continent’s growing importance as both a source market and a destination for intra-African travel.

Industry players have welcomed the integration of ATIF into this year’s expo, noting that access to investment remains one of the biggest challenges facing the sector, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.

With global travel trends increasingly favouring cultural authenticity and environmental responsibility, Africa’s tourism sector is well-positioned for robust growth. The World Travel and Tourism Council projects that the continent’s tourism industry could grow at a rate of 6.5 percent annually over the next decade, with a potential total contribution of US$350 billion.

As Kenya prepares to host this landmark edition of MKTE, stakeholders agree that the time for a united African tourism agenda is now.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has officially launched an ambitious new global campaign titled A Journey Through the Wild Heart of East Africa, designed to spotlight Kenya as a premier destination for adventure tourism. This initiative marks a significant transformation in the nation’s marketing approach, emphasizing immersive and thrilling experiences that showcase Kenya’s exceptional natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and lively cultural traditions.

Crafted in collaboration with the renowned BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions, the campaign centers around the extraordinary journey of acclaimed travel photographer Jack Swynnerton. Through a compelling three-part multimedia series, viewers are invited to traverse Kenya’s diverse landscapes—by land, air, and water—capturing the essence of the country’s wild heart and adventurous spirit.

Immersive Adventures Captured Across Kenya’s Iconic Landscapes

The campaign powerfully highlights some of Kenya’s most thrilling and unforgettable adventures. It features breathtaking scenes from a hot air balloon safari over the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife reserves, where the sweeping vistas of roaming elephants, lions, and wildebeests unfold beneath the rising sun. This aerial adventure highlights the thrill of witnessing the Great Migration and Kenya’s rich biodiversity from a unique vantage point.

Next, the series follows Swynnerton’s ascent of Mount Kenya, East Africa’s second-highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The challenging hike offers not only a physical test but also an opportunity to experience the country’s rugged terrain, alpine forests, and stunning glacial formations. This segment emphasizes the spirit of adventure and the diverse terrain that Kenya offers beyond its famous savannahs.
The campaign also highlights Kenya’s untouched coastal waters near Watamu, capturing peaceful scenes of paddling on a board or sailing aboard a traditional dhow boat.

This serene yet invigorating coastal journey captures the blend of adventure and relaxation, highlighting Kenya’s blue economy and the rich marine biodiversity along its Indian Ocean shoreline.

Strategic Shift Towards Adventure Tourism to Drive Growth

With international travel patterns evolving, the Kenya Tourism Board’s campaign strategically targets a growing global market of adventure travelers seeking authentic, active, and meaningful experiences. By spotlighting diverse activities—from thrilling safaris and mountain treks to water-based exploration—the campaign broadens Kenya’s appeal beyond traditional wildlife viewing to attract new visitor segments.

This initiative is timely as Kenya aims to boost international arrivals and diversify its tourism offerings post-pandemic. Adventure tourism, known for its high economic impact and potential for sustainable growth, aligns with Kenya’s commitment to preserving its natural environment while promoting community involvement and cultural exchange.

Leveraging Multimedia Storytelling for Maximum Engagement

The collaboration with BBC StoryWorks enables the Kenya Tourism Board to leverage expert storytelling and high-quality production values to reach audiences worldwide. Through cinematic visuals, engaging narratives, and social media integration, the campaign is designed to captivate potential travelers, inspiring them to explore Kenya’s wild and adventurous side.

By featuring a respected travel photographer’s authentic perspective, the series adds credibility and a personal touch that resonates with today’s experiential travelers who value genuine connections and immersive journeys.

Looking Ahead: Kenya’s Adventure Tourism Future

The launch of A Journey Through the Wild Heart of East Africa signals Kenya’s readiness to evolve its tourism brand and position itself competitively on the global stage. As adventure travel continues to gain momentum internationally, Kenya’s diverse ecosystems, welcoming communities, and wealth of activities offer immense growth potential.

This campaign not only promotes Kenya’s natural and cultural treasures but also reinforces the country’s role as a leader in sustainable and responsible tourism. By inviting the world to experience the wild heart of East Africa in thrilling new ways, Kenya is opening the door to a new era of travel—one defined by discovery, excitement, and deep connection to nature.

Experts suggest that the next phase of evolution will focus on enhanced security measures, stricter vetting processes for hosts, and improved dispute resolution mechanisms for travellers. 

Source : TravelandTourWorld.com

The Kenyan travel industry is undergoing a significant transformation as online booking platforms surge in popularity, driven by convenience, competitive pricing, and the rise of remote work and leisure travel trends. 

However, alongside this growth, challenges such as fraudulent listings and concerns over liability and inconsistent property quality are emerging. Years before digital convenience revolutionised the travel industry, booking a stay relied on phone calls, word-of-mouth recommendations, or simply hoping for the best upon arrival. This was the predicament that Dave Mua, a property revenue manager, faced during his first visit to Diani, a coastal gem in Kenya celebrated for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts.

Mua’s trip turned into an ordeal when he struggled to find accommodation that met his budget. With limited listings available online at the time, his choices were constrained, and he had to settle for lodging that fell far below his expectations. The frustration was enough to deter him from returning. But years later, Mua embraced a different approach—one that would restore his confidence in travel. 

Using an online booking platform, he secured a vacation villa through a registered agent, ensuring that he could verify the legitimacy of the property, pay securely through the site, and even arrange for airport transfers and a local guide. The convenience was transformative. Mua’s experience is emblematic of a broader shift in Kenya’s travel industry. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, online booking platforms have surged in popularity, reshaping how travellers plan and secure accommodations.

The shift to online booking has been particularly pronounced since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, marking a new era for the industry. A growing acceptance of digital reservations has been fueled by several factors, including the rise of remote work and ‘bleisure’ travel—a trend that blends business and leisure.

Short-term rentals, favoured by digital nomads, remote workers, and leisure travellers, have emerged as a key driver of this growth, offering a diverse range of options beyond traditional hotels. 

Eleni Georgopoulou, CEO of YourHost, a property management firm, emphasises that this flexibility has widened the target audience for short-term rentals. She notes the appeal of amenities such as high-speed internet, dedicated workspaces, and homely environments, which cater to travellers seeking both comfort and productivity. Travellers are drawn to the diversity and personalisation these options offer. Unlike standardised hotel rooms, short-term rentals range from apartments and private homes to luxury villas and cabins, allowing guests to immerse themselves in local cultures and lifestyles.

Modern travellers increasingly prioritise authenticity and unique experiences, making short-term rentals a compelling alternative. The competitive landscape among online booking platforms has also significantly impacted pricing. Guests can easily compare options, often securing better deals than through traditional hotel bookings. Eleni notes that online platforms provide a variety of choices, allowing consumers to weigh pricing against customer reviews and amenities, ensuring greater transparency and value.

Notably, Kenya’s rate of online travel bookings has climbed to approximately 40 percent, outpacing the continent’s average by 10 percent. Industry analysts predict that this number will continue to rise as technology advances and consumer trust in digital platforms strengthens. Mobile money solutions, which have seen widespread adoption in Kenya, further contribute to the ease of transactions, making booking and payment seamless.

However, this transformation is not without its challenges. The proliferation of fraudulent listings poses a significant threat, with unsuspecting travellers facing financial losses from fake properties and deceptive payment schemes. Ian Kinyua, a short-term rental host, warns that scammers often exploit travellers unfamiliar with digital booking systems, enticing them to make payments outside the platform.

Concerns over liability also affect perceptions of online booking services. Many platforms act purely as intermediaries, listing properties without assuming responsibility for issues such as injuries sustained by guests or misrepresented accommodations. 

The fine print of most booking platforms’ terms and conditions often absolves the companies of liability, leading to disputes over jurisdiction and legal recourse, especially for international travellers. Inconsistency in property quality is another pressing issue. While some short-term rentals provide high standards of cleanliness and maintenance, others fall short, with reports of neglected facilities, dirty linens, or misleading descriptions. Without stringent regulations governing hosts, travellers must rely on customer reviews to gauge the reliability of listings.

Looking ahead, online booking platforms are expected to continue driving innovation within the travel industry. Features such as instant booking, flexible cancellation policies, and transparent review systems are essential to maintain and increase consumer confidence. Additionally, some platforms are taking steps to verify listings more rigorously, reducing instances of fraud.

Experts suggest that the next phase of evolution will focus on enhanced security measures, stricter vetting processes for hosts, and improved dispute resolution mechanisms for travellers. 

Source : Mwakilishi.com

Zambia Airways announces the launch of a brand-new regional service connecting Lusaka, Zambia to Harare, Zimbabwe, with flights scheduled to begin on 17th June 2025. This exciting development marks another milestone in Zambia Airways’ mission to enhance regional connectivity and support economic integration within Southern Africa.

Starting June 17, flights between Lusaka and Harare will operate three times a week,every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday ,at the following convenient times (local time):

Route	Flight No.	Departure	Arrival
Lusaka → Harare	ZN 303	06:00	07:10
Harare → Lusaka	ZN 302	07:55	09:05

With this new addition, travelers can now explore more of Zambia Airways’ expanding network, with bookings available via www.zambia-airways.com or through a KATA-certified travel agent.

Strengthening Regional Ties

Commenting on the launch, Zambia Airways CEO Mr. Thomas Gebreyohannes Woldesenbet remarked:

“We are thrilled to add Harare to our growing regional network. This new route is not just about connecting two cities, it’s about connecting people, cultures, and economies.”

He added that the Lusaka-Harare link is expected to strengthen bilateral trade, support business and tourism, and promote greater regional cooperation. With early morning departures, the service is well-suited for business travelers, cargo logistics, and tourists eager to explore the rich heritage and natural wonders of both nations.

“This service opens new opportunities for entrepreneurs, fosters the movement of goods and services, and supports the broader vision of regional integration,” said Mr. Woldesenbet.

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) plans to hold its 45th annual convention in Mombasa next month.

The event, which will attract 350 delegates drawn from various travel agencies in Kenya, marks an increase from about 280 participants attending the annual convention in 2024.

Register Here

“With the Kenyan coast as a vibrant backdrop, the KATA Annual Convention is not only a professional milestone but also a celebration of the resilience and potential of the travel industry,” KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula told TUKO.co.ke on Tuesday, May 20.

He said that this year, the event will run under the theme “Going Further Together.”

The annual gathering, he said, will bring together key players from the travel, tourism, and aviation sectors—including travel agents, tour operators, government officials, and business leaders—for three days of high-level discussions, networking, and knowledge sharing.

Sabula said that, looking at the past attendance, the number of participants has grown significantly from last year’s 280, highlighting increasing interest and confidence in Kenya’s travel sector.

“This convention is a key platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration within the industry. As we mark our 45th year, we are excited to see record numbers and strong engagement from all corners of the sector,” he said.

Top leaders expected at KATA AGM & convention

The 2025 edition will feature a lineup of top-tier speakers, including Sunil Kumar, president of the United Federation of Travel Agents Associations (UFTAA). Other top delegates who will attend the event include Kenya Airways group managing director and CEO Allan Kilavuka, as well as the Cabinet Secretary for Wildlife and Tourism, Rebecca Miano. The top travel leaders will share insights on the future of travel, digital transformation, sustainable tourism, and regional connectivity.

Unlike previous years, this year’s programme includes an exhibition area showcasing innovations in travel technology and services, as well as a fundraising raffle supporting KATA Cares, the association’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative protecting coastal communities.

Register Here

Source : tuko.co.ke

Costly and cumbersome intracontinental flights have led to a disconnect between countries that share so much. Why is it so circuitous, expensive, time-consuming, and exhausting to travel within Africa?

Africa’s aviation challenges

Here are some of the routes that are available for travel within Africa. Buckle up. The shortest option from Johannesburg to Dakar is 14 and a half hours over two stops through Gabon and Togo. If you would prefer fewer stops, you have the option of leaving Africa altogether – flying to Istanbul and returning to the continent, which takes a “quick” 26 hours and five minutes. Port Sudan to Kampala, a mere 1,860 miles away, is a nine-hour flight via Addis Ababa. And if you want to hop over from sub-Saharan Africa to north Africa, you are likely to end up in Paris or Amsterdam, which I have done, and felt that sailing around the Cape of Good Hope might have made more sense. And cost less. The minimum you’ll pay for such trips is US $1,000 return.

Few carriers – and no cheap ones

Part of the problem is that there are only a few large airlines on the continent. Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and EgyptAir dominate Africa, and travellers are subject to those carriers’ regional concentration, decisions on which direct routes to service, and the prices they can set, given the lack of competition.

The result is that European airlines such as KLM, Air France and Turkish Airlines mop up the rest of the journeys, and therefore hurl travellers out of the continent to their connecting hubs. I asked a Kenyan aviation expert why it was so hard for African airlines to expand their coverage, and he said: “Every plane isn’t just a plane. It’s insurance, it’s parts, it’s maintenance.” The bar is very high for an additional route. And so while it would be great to pop over from Nairobi to N’Djamena, there just isn’t enough traffic to justify the cost.

There might be, if the prices were lower. Air travel remains a huge luxury in Africa, and there are no low-cost regional equivalents to budget carriers such as easyJet and Ryanair, as a result of everything from lack of demand to the high capital required to establish a new airline. However, there is a chicken-and-egg element here: pan-African travel for leisure is considered prohibitively costly and cumbersome, and so the infrastructure required to support it, as well as domestic tourism markets, are discouraged.

https://cdn.optoutadvertising.com/script/sf/r.html There is another reason that raises a deeper question about how high the barriers are between countries that often share borders, languages and even tribal and ethnic relations.

The visa problem

It is an enduring travesty that in most parts of Africa, it is easier to gain entry if you have a western passport than an African one. My travel within the continent opened up vastly after I received a British passport, and it always feels like an uncomfortable colonial throwback to produce it for admission, rather than my Sudanese one. There are strong regional groupings, such as the Economic Community of West African States, and Kenya has recently declared that it will soon allow visa-free travel for all Africans – a bold announcement that has no launch date.

Other barriers linger, and some are getting higher. A historic free travel treaty between Sudan and Egypt was scrapped after the start of the war in Sudan to stanch the flow of refugees. This year, the African Union called for an acceleration of visa-free movement to boost regional integration, and officials blamed enduring travel restrictions for not only the blocking of the goal of a united Africa but also for hampering growth and development. Part of that slow growth is the stagnation of the aviation industry. Free movement, said the vice-president for regional development, “must be the backbone of our integration”.

Air Afrique: Could the glamorous past be a model for the future?

There was once a pan-African airline whose posters I recall being a part of the iconography of travel on the continent: Air Afrique. Established in 1961 by a collective of West African Francophone countries and two French airlines, Air Afrique flew to 56 destinations, 35 of which were in Africa. As a marker of how much travel is crucial to fostering connections, it became more than just an airline and developed into a cultural powerhouse, sponsoring film festivals and establishing style standards (in a nod to this years after the airline closed, a Parisian art collective created an Air Afrique installation at men’s fashion week in 2022).

After dominating African travel for four decades, Air Afrique succumbed to bankruptcy in 2002 as a result of mismanagement and the challenges of the aviation industry after 9/11. And there is a lesson there on how economic and political shocks, such as recessions and pandemics, are hard to manage, even by the most established players. It is understandable why airlines and policymakers may choose to be conservative.

But the case for increased African and African diaspora travel routes is becoming ever more persuasive. Three years ago, Kenya announced that it would be partnering with South Africa to launch a new pan-African carrier. And Nigeria is in talks to launch direct flights to Jamaica and Barbados.

There is clearly much infrastructure, investment and liberation of visa regimes needed to turn these ambitions into reality. But there is now such a vast disconnect between the growing cultural and political links between many countries that share so much, that the business case for extending them through air travel should eventually become obvious. And just think of the airline stewards’ uniforms.

Source: The Guardian