News – Page 3 – Kenya Association of Travel Agents

Hyatt Regency’s Grand Opening Boosts Nairobi’s High-End Hotel Sector

Nairobi’s hospitality sector has welcomed its latest luxurious offering with the grand opening of the Hyatt Regency, which commenced operations on Wednesday.

This new high-end hotel aims to attract an upscale global clientele with its spacious accommodations, large television screens, a spa, and a yoga studio. Positioned alongside established luxury establishments such as GTC Residence Apartments, JW Marriott, and Kempinski, the Hyatt Regency’s debut serves as a marker of Nairobi’s thriving hospitality industry and its corresponding impact on the real estate sector.

Catering to both business and leisure travellers, the city’s hoteliers are working to foster environments that provide guests with a sense of home.
Nev Jiwani, Group Managing Director of Go Places, a key player in connecting hotels and guests, notes a significant shift in guest expectations towards more expansive lodging options.

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“Previously, we used to have small rooms. These days, we have new establishments that are more spacious, and you feel you are in your home,” she explains, underscoring the increasing demand for larger rooms among foreign visitors.

Moreover, tourists are attracted to Kenya not only for business-related events, such as conferences and meetings but also for the country’s unique experiences that encourage extended stays. Local attractions, inclusive of wildlife safaris, mountain climbing, street food tours, destination weddings, and shopping, are becoming integral components of travel packages.

Jiwani highlights the rising trend of destination weddings, stating, “People coming to Kenya want to exchange vows in the Maasai inland or the manyatta. They wish to celebrate traditionally while integrating local experiences with international flair.”

The growing demand for health and wellness amenities, including yoga studios, gyms, and health clubs, reflects a broader trend towards preventative healthcare and self-care, particularly within the trillion-dollar wellness market. According to the Tourism Sector Performance Report 2023 by the Tourism Research Institute, hospitality venues featuring spa facilities are well-positioned to capitalize on this demand.

The report also notes that “80 percent of consumers seek tailored experiences from retailers, and the tourism industry is no exception,” highlighting an expectation for personalized experiences among modern travellers. Denis Glibic, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hyatt Regency, describes Kenya as having significant growth potential in the tourism sector.

Glibic further elaborates on the high-end clientele business model, emphasizing the importance of demand in Nairobi. The city serves as the headquarters for various international organizations, including the United Nations, and is a key hub for visitors facilitated by Kenya Airways and other airlines.

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“We are high-end, and this means we have bigger rooms, bigger televisions, more services, and 24-hour room service, which not many hotels are offering. This is just another addition to the market that sets us a little apart,” says Glibic.

Tourism statistics from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics indicate that tourist arrivals reached 2.087 million in 2023, a notable increase from 1.5 million in 2022 and 871,000 in 2021. According to Hyatt Hotels Corporation, the Hyatt Regency brand in Nairobi aims to provide an unparalleled hospitality experience by merging elements of Kenya’s local culture with its signature service.

Etihad Airways Strengthens Kenya Presence with Premium Office Launch

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE established in 2003, has marked another milestone in its expansion in East Africa with the opening of a new corporate office in Nairobi’s prestigious Global Trade Centre (GTC). The office, operated through Etihad’s General Sales Agent (GSA) ITVAR Travel, was officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 22, 2025 by Ahmad Dib, Etihad Airways General Manager Middle East & Africa, and Dr. Joseph Kithitu, Chairman of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), alongside local business leaders.

The strategic location in Westlands, Nairobi’s premier business district, strengthens Etihad’s presence in Kenya following the launch of direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi in December 2024. Operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with an Airbus A320 aircraft offering eight seats in Business and 150 in Economy, the service connects the two capital cities with morning departures from Abu Dhabi and evening flights from Nairobi.
Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading business hub, with its modern infrastructure and strategic location between Africa and Asia, makes it an increasingly important destination for Kenyan corporate travellers. The city offers world-class facilities for international business and serves as an ideal gateway for companies expanding their global presence.
According to Etihad Airways Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Arik De, this premium location in Nairobi’s Global Trade Centre strengthens the airline’s commitment to the East African market.
“The strong performance of our Nairobi service since its launch last month demonstrates the increasing ties between our two nations. This new office opening underscores our commitment to the Kenyan market as we continue to see growing demand from business and leisure travellers in both directions.”
Dr. Joseph Kithitu, KATA Chairman, added: “The opening of Etihad Airways’ new office in Nairobi’s business hub signals confidence in Kenya’s aviation market. This investment, coupled with their new direct flights, creates valuable opportunities for the travel trade and enhances connectivity for Kenyan travellers.”
The Global Trade Centre, a landmark development in Nairobi’s business district, houses numerous international corporations and is strategically positioned to serve Kenya’s expanding business travel sector.

Kenya eases travel rules for African visitors, except Somalia and Libya

The Cabinet indicated that the initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across Africa. It emphasised that the changes to the eTA system are part of efforts to enhance efficiency and support tourism growth.

The Cabinet has announced new measures to simplify travel for African nationals, exempting most countries on the continent from the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) requirement.

Under the revised policy, visitors from African countries will be permitted to stay in Kenya for up to two months. East African Community (EAC) nationals, however, will continue to enjoy a six-month stay, in line with the EAC’s free movement protocols.

However, Somalia and Libya have been excluded from the exemptions due to ongoing security concerns.

The reforms were made during the first 2025 Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto at State Lodge, Kakamega.

The Cabinet indicated that the initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across Africa.

It emphasised that the changes to the eTA system are part of efforts to enhance efficiency and support tourism growth.

“As part of efforts to support open skies policies and tourism growth, a key proposal is to grant eTA exemptions to all African countries except Somalia and Libya—due to security concerns. This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel

across the continent,” reads the Cabinet dispatch.

The eTA system, introduced in January 2024, mandates all travellers, including children, to obtain prior approval before travelling to Kenya. The permit costs $30 (approximately Sh3,880) and is valid for a single entry, allowing a stay of up to 90 days.

The Cabinet also approved the introduction of an expedited eTA processing option, allowing travellers to receive instant approval. The processing time for eTAs will be capped at 72 hours, depending on operational capacity.

Additionally, the implementation of an Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record system is expected to improve pre-screening, bolster security, and streamline passenger processing at entry points.

Further, the government has waived eTA fees for travellers from Botswana, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Zambia, Comoros, Eritrea, and the Republic of Congo, among others.

The Cabinet has also tasked the Secretaries for National Treasury, Transport, Interior, and Tourism with reviewing and reporting within a week on ways to enhance travellers’ experiences at Kenyan airports.

The move signals Kenya’s return to a more open travel policy, reminiscent of a previous system that allowed citizens from 51 African countries to visit visa-free.

It highlights the government’s commitment to fostering regional integration and facilitating easier travel within the continent.

Source: Eastleigh voice

How Uganda Airlines Reduced Losses by 26% in a Year

The national carrier boosted local suppliers beyond Uganda’s skies by taking their products into in-flight services

Revived in 2019 to enhance connectivity and boost tourism, Uganda Airlines faced turbulence from the start but is now showing signs of recovery, with optimism replacing initial skepticism.

Uganda Airlines has achieved a significant financial milestone by reducing its losses by 26% over the past year, as highlighted in the Uganda Auditor General’s report.

Losses dropped from Shs324.9 billion in 2023 to Shs237.85 billion in 2024, a testament to effective leadership and strategic initiatives aimed at reversing years of financial challenges.

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“The 26% reduction in losses is a clear indication of the strides we’ve made in addressing operational inefficiencies,” said Shakila Rahim Lamar, head of corporate affairs and communication at Uganda Airlines.

She added that the airline’s leadership is optimistic about achieving profitability in the near future, citing planned expansions and continued government support for capital projects as key enablers.

Uganda Airlines was revived in 2019 after nearly two decades in the dust to enhance the country’s connectivity and boost its aviation industry.

Despite initial optimism, the airline grappled with significant financial losses in its early years, exacerbated by legacy contracts, high operational costs, and limited revenue streams.

The appointment of Jenifer Bamuturaki as chief executive in 2022 marked a turning point for the airline.

Tasked with steering the company toward sustainability from is acute loss-making and uncertainty on whether it would survive the cut-throat aviation competition, Ms Bamuturaki implemented a series of bold measures to address inefficiencies and improve revenue generation.

Ms Bamutaraki laid her commitment bare during an engagement with editors in February last year, urging journalists to transform their inquiries into compelling narratives while promoting a balanced relationship between the media and businesses.

“Do you remember the fuelling saga in Dar es Salaam some years ago? I found it hard to believe when the media ran wild with stories suggesting that an aircraft, which was on the ground waiting to refuel, was in danger of crashing,” she said.

Key Measures Implemented

Uganda Airlines, under the stewardship of Bamuturaki, expanded its operations from 11 to 16 routes, including the addition of Mumbai and Lagos.

Ms Lamar told the Nile Post that while these routes incurred initial costs, they significantly boosted passenger traffic and cargo revenues, positioning the airline for long-term growth.

The national carrier attributes this strategic route development to its ability to improve connectivity while increasing revenue streams.

Recognising the potential of cargo services, the airline prioritised this segment, leading to an impressive 380% growth over the past year.

“Over 9,233 tonnes of cargo were transported, establishing cargo operations as a critical revenue stream,” Ms Lamar said.

To maximise limited resources, the airline also utilised a wet lease for an Airbus A320, which has been instrumental in meeting demand on high-traffic routes.

This arrangement allowed Uganda Airlines to increase seat capacity and support passenger growth without the immediate financial burden of outright aircraft acquisition.

Cost management has been a focal point of the airline’s strategy. Uganda Airlines reviewed and renegotiated outdated contracts, streamlined staff wages and benefits, and introduced a self-handling project at Entebbe International Airport to reduce reliance on external providers.

Fuel management mechanisms were also improved to optimize acquisition and usage amidst fluctuating global fuel prices.

Additionally, Uganda Airlines increased local contracting from 10% to 80%, ensuring consistent supply chains while supporting the national economy.

This shift to local suppliers has reduced costs and bolstered Ugandan industries, the airline noted.

Despite these achievements, Uganda Airlines continues to face challenges. Forex exposures, high fuel costs, blocked funds in countries like Nigeria and Burundi, and mandatory aircraft maintenance remain pressing issues.

Ms Lamar highlighted these obstacles but reiterated that the strategic measures adopted have significantly mitigated their impact, setting the airline on a path toward sustainability.

Broader Impact and Future Prospects

In his report for the last financial year – and a maiden one at that – Auditor General Edward Akol, noted that while a number of state-owned enterprises and corporations in Uganda are grappling with worsening financial performance, some have been facing bleak financial outcomes.

Joining Uganda Airlines on the progressive podium were Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), whose losses sharply reduced by up to 78.4%, from Shs17.5 billion to Shs3.78 billion.

Uganda Air Cargo Corporation also showed progress, reducing its losses from Shs10 billion in 2023 to Shs8.21 billion in 2024.

While these figures still represent substantial losses, AG Akol said the trend was encouraging, suggesting that operational adjustments and better financial oversight can result in significant improvements.

Beyond financial performance, Uganda Airlines has made substantial socio-economic contributions.

Operating 20 daily flights across 16 routes, the airline has enhanced regional connectivity and reduced travel times.

Its operations account for 23.6% of Entebbe International Airport’s total traffic, while 90% of onboard consumables are sourced locally, supporting local industries.

Over the past five years, Uganda Airlines has generated Shs1.2 trillion in revenue and created 560 jobs. Looking ahead, the airline plans to expand its operations to the United Kingdom and acquire two midrange freighters, further strengthening its market position.

“We are optimistic about reducing losses further in the next financial year as we expand into new markets and optimise our operations,” said Ms Lamar.

The story of Uganda Airlines highlights how effective leadership and targeted strategies can transform even the most challenging circumstances into a path toward recovery and growth.

Source: Nile post

State eyes 200,000 adventure tourists in five years

NAIROBI, Jan.15 (Xinhua) — Kenya’s tourism ministry said on Tuesday that it aims to attract about 200,000 travelers over the next five years by tapping into the adventure tourism market.

Rebecca Miano, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, said the East African country has launched the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series to diversify the sector away from beach and wildlife products.

“Through these initiatives, we seek not only to attract more international visitors but also to promote local tourism and create economic opportunities for the communities involved,” she said in a statement.

According to Miano, the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series encompasses a diverse range of activities, including hiking, biking, cultural immersions, and farm tours across five counties of Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, and Nandi.

June Chepkemei, chief executive officer (CEO) of the state-owned Kenya Tourism Board, said adventure tourism will allow visitors to discover hidden gems by traversing unique terrains and immersing themselves in the rich and diverse cultures of the participating counties.

Chepkemei noted that adventure tourism is also expected to enable Kenya to develop new tourism pathways by improving its tourism sector beyond the 2.4 million international visitors and 350 billion Kenyan shillings (about 2.7 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue generated in 2024.

She said the tourism sector remains one of the key pillars of the country’s economy as well as a key source of foreign exchange earnings alongside tea, horticulture, and diaspora remittances.

Kenya anticipates hosting more adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, both local and international, who are keen to celebrate Kenya’s beauty through hiking, biking, farm tours, and tea and coffee tastings, the CEO added.

Source: Capital Fm

Is Travel Insurance Necessary? We asked experts

Investing in travel insurance might seem tedious, but it can save you from significant financial loss and stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation.

Travel insurance protects you from certain financial risks and losses that can occur while you’re out exploring another part of the country or the world. These are typically things you couldn’t have predicted and didn’t see coming, from lost luggage to severe weather issues causing a trip or tour to get cancelled.

Southern Living talked with some experts in the insurance and the travel space for the lowdown on this practical yet essential piece of traveling.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Travel insurance coverage varies by company and plan. Policies aren’t one-size fits-all, and there are a range of options to suit all different kinds of travelers and their individual needs.

Lauren Gumport, VP at Faye Travel Insurance, says you’ll often find providers offering a handful of add-ons, if relevant. For example, rental car coverage, vacation rental damage protection, or extreme sports.

“These extras will increase the cost of your policy, while of course also boosting your coverage,” notes Gumport.

A great many people elect to protect their trip with travel medical insurance, since health insurance coverage in the United States doesn’t expand to overseas travel typically. This is why Dana Lewis, Dallas-based owner of DWD Travel & Destination Weddings, says it’s especially important to purchase travel insurance when going out of the country.

“I can’t imagine a scenario where I wouldn’t purchase travel insurance!” she adds.

Who Should Get Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance isn’t just for people who travel often, though frequent travelers may opt for an annual plan instead of buying insurance for an individual trip. It’s really up to what you need, and it’s worth noting that it’s fast and easy to get a free travel insurance quote. You can compare and contrast plans without committing.

Lewis encourages her clients to purchase travel insurance, no matter the travel circumstances. It’s not about a certain type of traveler, she says, since “any age, any person traveling out of their home country, or even in their own country, would benefit if something should happen.”

Gumport agrees that domestic and international travelers should be insured. Basically, “anyone traveling who wants peace of mind in the chance that things go wrong,” should purchase travel insurance.

“Like any insurance, hopefully you never need to utilize it, but should you need it, travel insurance is a lifeline,” says Lewis.

How To Select A Plan

Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA, points to different offerings based on travelers’ needs and budgets. Travelers who take multiple trips a year may save money by purchasing an annual plan while travelers on a budget with few pre-paid expenses may opt for a single trip emergency medical plan to get coverage for medical emergencies and emergency medical transportation, explains Durazo.

It’s important to do your homework, says Gumport, who suggests reading reviews of travel insurance companies. See what fellow travelers are saying before you select a company and policy. Then go about getting a quote based on your total estimated trip cost, destination(s), members of your travel party, and what add-ons are available to supplement your policy with, advises Gumport.

“Many travelers love the ability to Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR). This type of protection lets you nix your trip, just because you feel like it,” adds Gumport.

When To Select A Plan

Durazo suggests purchasing a plan at the same time you book your trip. Many travel insurance plans are offered with a 15-day “free look” review period to ensure the plan you selected is the right fit. If it’s not, you can simply change your policy or request a full refund.

That said, you can wait until the last minute to purchase trip coverage. Buying early or at the time you’ve booked the trip and have the trip’s financials in order offers greater protection, but if you’re headed out of town in a couple of days and suddenly decide you ought to have a travel medical policy, you can still purchase travel insurance.

Bottom line? “Travel insurance is designed to protect you and your vacation from covered, unexpected events, so don’t risk your perfectly-planned trip by leaving without it,” says Durazo.

Source: Southern Living

Airlines Oppose UK ETA Price Hike

Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) opposes the UK Home Office proposal to increase the costs of UK Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) by 60% to GBP 16. Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, commented as follows:

“Proposing to increase ETA costs just a week after the system was introduced is bewildering. If implemented it would be a self-inflicted blow to the UK’s tourism competitiveness. In November the government laid out plans to increase tourist arrivals by 30% to reach 50 million annually by 2030 in pursuit of tourism’s economic benefits. Gouging these travelers with a 60% increase in the ETA is a very bad start. The added cost would come on top of the Air Passenger Duty (APD)—the biggest travel tax in the world—which itself will increase again in April. And let’s not forget that travelers have choice and the EU’s ETIAS will be far better value—costing about a third as much as this proposed pricing and lasting a year longer.

It’s time for the UK government to see the big picture. It has everything to gain by making the UK a more cost-competitive travel destination—including the substantial tax revenues that travelers generate. It makes no sense to discourage visitors with high costs even before they set foot in the country.”

UK aviation and tourism supports 1.6 million jobs currently, providing USD 160.7 billion to the UK’s GDP. Please see the IATA Value of Air Transport to the United Kingdom study for further details.

Source: IATA

African airlines mark 4th consecutive year of no fatal accidents

The content has benefited from initiatives such as the Focus Africa initiative, under which the International Air Transport Association (IATA) improved aviation safety.

African airlines have recorded no fatal air travel accidents for the fourth consecutive year, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported, noting aviation remains the safest mode of transport.

IATA’s 2023 report Annual Safety Report says African airlines have not suffered a single passenger jet aircraft loss or fatal accident since 2020, and that the majority of the continent’s carriers did not suffer any fatal accidents in 2023, whether jet or turboprop.

Dubai secures 437 bids for global business events in 2024, up 20 percent annually

Dubai has continued to consolidate its standing as a top choice for prominent international business conferences, events, congresses, corporate meetings and incentives in 2024, with the city securing the opportunity to host a record 437 events from a range of sectors and professions.

Driven by Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s official convention bureau and part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, this marked a 20 percent year-on-year increase in the number of successful bids, further elevating Dubai’s status as a globally competitive hub for events, powered by innovation, infrastructure development and rising global economic influence.

“The healthy increase in successful bids in 2024 is further proof of Dubai’s rising prominence as a destination that delivers not only world-class business events infrastructure and capabilities but also provides unrivaled, memorable experiences for all organizers and delegates,” stated Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.

Events to attract over 200,000 delegates

The events captured in 2024 are set to attract around 210,731 delegates to Dubai over the coming years, making a direct impact on the city’s economy and travel and tourism ecosystems, and bringing talent and expertise from around the world to enjoy the platform Dubai provides for knowledge sharing, professional development and networking.

The city’s success, driven by collaborative efforts across the public and private sectors, underlines Dubai’s unrelenting draw as a go-to, accessible, safe and welcoming global MICE destination. This growth feeds into Dubai’s wider economic growth by attracting more visitors, positioning Dubai in the global business events arena, and shedding light on its thriving knowledge economy.

Furthermore, it cements the important role business events are playing in achieving the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure.

“To build on this momentum, we are engaging with all stakeholders, trusted partners and service providers, to elevate Dubai’s position as a leader in the competitive business events landscape – aiming for sustainable economic growth, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. We look forward to harnessing the power of opportunity to create further impact for the benefit of everyone, and demonstrate what sets Dubai apart to a global audience,” added Al Khaja.

Key wins propelling growth

Among the most noteworthy wins last year were the 2025 WFNS World Congress of Neurosurgery, with 4,000 delegates; the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit & Mayor Summit, with 1,200 delegates; the 2025 Pan Arab Radiology Conference, with 1,500 delegates; and the 2026 Global Symposium on Health System Research, with 3,000 delegates.

Dubai also secured the 2026 FIP World Stamp Exhibition, with 1,000 delegates, and the 2028 Scientific Assembly and Associated Events of the Committee on Space Research, with 3,000 delegates.

In addition, Dubai won bids for several prestigious corporate and incentive events in 2024, including the 2025 Oppo Guangdong Incentive, with 4,000 delegates; the 2025 Loyal Connect Global, with 3,000 delegates; the 2025 GLA Global Logistics Conference, with 1,500 Delegates; the 2026 Forever Living Global Rally, with 12,000 delegates; the 2026 Emerson Exchange, with 2,500 delegates; and the 2026 Herbalife China Incentive, with 1,200 delegates.

Further supporting Dubai’s growing business events landscape, DBE engaged with industry professionals around the world at trade shows including IMEX Frankfurt, The Meetings Show, IBTM World, and IMEX America, as well as through a year-round calendar of sales missions, study missions and site inspections.

Read: Sharjah Shopping Promotions continue to boost retail sales, economic growth

Programs and partnerships

Other key initiatives included the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Program, which engaged its locally-based subject matter experts and members from various professional fields to secure more events and welcome more delegates to Dubai in the coming years. Partnerships with key industry bodies including the BestCities Global Alliance, the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) further boosted growth.

This performance follows key milestones achieved in 2024, including ICCA ranking Dubai the top city in the Middle East for the number of association meetings hosted, and events crowning it number one in its ‘Top Meeting Destinations in the Middle East and Africa’.

Source: Economy Middle East

Kenya Takes Center Stage as Kuriftu Resort & Spa Unveils African Union-Themed Resort in Addis Ababa

Kuriftu Resort & Spa, a pioneer in Ethiopia’s luxury hospitality industry for over two decades, continues to redefine excellence with the launch of the Kuriftu Resort & Spa African Village. Located in Ashewa Meda on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, this new resort is a celebration of Africa’s rich cultural heritage and its modern aspirations. With a design inspired by the continent’s diversity, the African Village pays homage to all 54 African nations, offering a unique blend of tradition and luxury.

Marking a significant milestone, Kenya will be the first nation celebrated in the resort’s themes, with its vibrant culture and heritage featured prominently in the design and offerings. The resort’s dedication to showcasing Africa’s unity and diversity begins with Kenya in the months of February and March 2025, setting the tone for a truly pan-African experience.

The African Village offers 54 luxury villas, each inspired by a different African nation, immersing guests in the art, cuisine, and traditions of the continent. Situated near Addis Ababa’s key diplomatic landmarks, the resort provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city while serving as a hub for business, leisure, and cultural exchange.

The resort features a range of state-of-the-art facilities. Its nine modern conference halls, including a multi-purpose venue with a capacity for 932 guests, are equipped with cutting-edge technology and panoramic views, making them ideal for high-profile gatherings and celebrations. Dining experiences at the resort include the 1963 Restaurant, named in honor of the founding year of the Organization of African Unity. This restaurant offers rotating menus showcasing dishes from across the continent, alongside a core menu inspired by Ethiopian cuisine. The Summit Grill, located at the highest point of the resort, combines international dining with spectacular views of Addis Ababa, accommodating up to 1,000 guests for events or weekend brunches.

Wellness and relaxation are integral to the resort’s offerings. Its indoor swimming pool, illuminated by natural light through a skylight roof and adorned with vibrant African artwork, provides guests with a serene retreat. The spa features African-inspired treatments, Moroccan baths, steam rooms, and a range of wellness services, including reflexology and a fully equipped gym.

At the heart of the African Village is a mission to promote inter-African tourism and cultural exchange. By bringing together all 54 African nations under one roof, the resort creates a space for collaboration, learning, and celebration of the continent’s shared heritage. It is designed to be a hub for diplomatic gatherings, cultural conferences, weddings, and social events, encouraging cross-border connections.

Tadiwos Getachew Belete, CEO and Founder of Kuriftu Resorts & Spa, described the African Village as “a living tribute to Africa’s culture, community, and craftsmanship.” He emphasized that this addition to Kuriftu’s portfolio – which includes Bishoftu, Entoto, Lake Tana, and Awash Falls – reflects the brand’s commitment to celebrating African heritage through world-class hospitality.

“Kuriftu Resort & Spa African Village is more than just a retreat,” Belete said. “It is a space designed to immerse guests in the vibrant traditions, artistry, and natural beauty of Africa. From its uniquely designed architecture to curated cultural experiences, we aim to create an environment where guests can connect deeply with the essence of this great continent.”

With Kenya leading the way in its celebration of African culture, the African Village is poised to become a beacon of unity, luxury, and innovation in African hospitality.