Dubai Emerges as a World-Class Destination for Luxury Yachts

In recent years Dubai has commanded attention for its spectacular architecture, vibrant economy, and allure for luxury travelers. It’s hard to believe that not too long ago this innovative city was a small trading port; now it is a state-of-the-art maritime center as well as a world-class destination and home base for yacht owners. Over the past decade Dubai has strategically developed its amenities and services with the aim of creating a thriving nautical ecosystem. For foreign-flagged craft the introduction to the area begins with a seamless arrival experience.

Today there are 22 marinas and more than 3,600 berths for boats, including many for superyachts, megayachts, and gigayachts. To accommodate these vessels an array of modern maintenance and repair facilities has opened, along with technical support, specialty marine stores, and, notably, marina-based health and wellness centers that cater to yacht guests and crews.

The warm weather and safe, tranquil seas here, especially from October to April, provide extraordinarily pleasurable cruising conditions, all complemented by Dubai’s land-based attractions. The city is known for its scenic coastline, luxe hotels, cultural fare, and award-winning restaurants. Cruise-in, dock-and-dine opportunities are a new trend, offering the possibility to moor for a few hours while enjoying fine dining at a resort or hotel, a spa treatment, or the amenities of a beach club.

Luxe and well-equipped marinas abound. Among the newest and most popular are the following: 

Dubai Harbour, which opened in 2020 with space for 700 vessels, is in the heart of Dubai, with easy access to tourist attractions and encompassing cafes, shops, VIP lounges, and the Dubai Harbour Yacht Club.

Nakheel Marinas Dubai Islands was launched in 2023 along the city’s north coast, offering easy cruising to the open sea; it can accommodate 13 superyachts at a time.

Luxurious and picturesque P & O Marinas has a total of 1,200 wet berths and 600 dry berths and includes well-known Mina Rashid, which can host a range of pleasure craft, plus superyachts between 25 and 160 meters.

Located on the prestigious Jumeirah Bay Island, along a promenade that resembles a Mediterranean village, Bulgari Marina & Yacht Club is a superyacht anchorage that includes berths for vessels from 10 to 40 meters as well as dock-and-dine services.

Also noteworthy are Bay Marina, Dubai’s first dedicated superyacht marina, with berths for vessels up to 160 meters; Palm View Marina, located on the Dubai Harbour seafront, which boasts a lively shoreside walkway; and Nakheel Marinas on Palm Jumeirah, which welcomes a range of sailing vessels with 261 berths in two marinas plus luxury yacht services.

Dubai’s busy winter-season calendar is filled with international events that appeal to yacht owners and other high-end travelers. The Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships, Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix, Emirates Dubai 7s rugby, and Dubai World Cup horse racing are just a few of the must-see tournaments for sports aficionados. On the cultural scene, there are Art Dubai, Dubai Watch Week, DIFC Art Nights, and World Art Dubai. High-profile maritime expositions that showcase the latest in yacht design, technology, and luxury include the Dubai International Boat Show, which celebrated its 30th anniversary earlier this year, and the three-day Gulf Superyacht Summit 2024, coming in November.

As Dubai has grown as a world-class yachting destination, the city has also focused on sustainability of its rich marine environment through collaborations and green marina initiatives with the aim of promoting responsible yachting and protecting the ocean’s biodiversity. Ensuring the health of the seas is a crucial element in maintaining Dubai’s importance to the luxury yachting community now and for generations to come.

Source: Robb Report.

Kenya backs to UN tourism growth agenda

In Summary

•Kenya was elected to chair the UN Tourism’s Committee on Tourism Competitiveness until 2027 earlier this year, after defeating strong bids from Thailand and Malta.

•UN Tourism Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili has called for more cooperation within the regions, including joint meetings.

Kenya has committed to supporting the UN Tourism’s growth and sustainability agenda aimed at promoting tourism as a leading economic activity. Tourism is the world’s fifth export earning category as of the close of 2022.

The 121st session of the UN Tourism Executive Council was held in Barcelona, Spain, and chaired by Saudi Arabia Minister for Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb.

Kenya called for enhanced collaboration and resource mobilization to strengthen the organization, amidst the global economic strains.

“Global tourism is recovering fully from the effects of the pandemic and many destinations are getting past the mark of the pre – Covid era. The world is alive to the gains of the tourism sector and Kenya is aligned to tap in other global trends” Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, who sent a delegation to Barcelona, said.

He said Kenya is committed to working closely with the UN Tourism and member states, to ensure tourism continues to be a key economic driver.

Mutua urged member states to explore innovative ways to raise funds and partner with other UN agencies such as the UN-Habitat and the private sector.

He said Kenya would leverage on the various programmes of UN Tourism in various areas including capacity building, community-based tourism, artificial intelligence, innovation, education, product promotion among others.

The CS further highlighted the need to regularize the election cycle and address non-compliance of membership fees as key to providing predictable budgeting and financing, that allows the UN Tourism to effectively execute its core functions of supporting regional workshops and initiatives.

As chair of the Committee on Tourism and Competitiveness until 2027, Kenya aims to steer other members into leveraging global data, research, case studies and partnerships to enhance global policies, as well as its own tourism policies and strategies.

The country also seeks to ensure the interests and needs of African and developing countries are represented amidst the voices of more established tourism markets on the global stage.

Kenya was elected to chair the UN Tourism’s Committee on Tourism Competitiveness until 2027 earlier this year, after two rounds of voting, defeating strong bids from Thailand and Malta.

UN Tourism Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili made a call for more cooperation within the regions, including joint meetings.

The Americas and Africa will meet in 2024 and Kenya will be part of the Africa talks slated for July 2024 in Zambia.

Source:  The-star.  

Kenya optimistic to receive increase of Chinese tourists

The number of Chinese tourists bounding for Kenya may triple over the next few years, following a surge in arrivals to the East African country last year, according to the tourism authority in Kenya.

Kenya’s tourism sector, a pillar industry, sees a huge opportunity in the Chinese market, and the country will intensify cooperation with industry players in China to tap the potential, June Chepkemei, the chief executive officer of the Kenya Tourism Board, said on Wednesday.

Tourism arrivals from China last year exceeded 52,000, a 161 percent growth compared with 2022, she said.

“China was the most improved tourism source market in 2023. Majority of the tourists come for leisure holidays followed by business and conferences,” she said at a tourism promotion event in Kenya’s capital Nairobi, which was held in collaboration with the Chinese city of Zhengzhou.

“Kenya Tourism Board is keen to collaborate with many stakeholders like media, governmental bodies, private sector partners like China based tour operators, online travel agencies, corporates and airlines to market Kenya,” Chepkemei said, adding that Kenya sees a huge opportunity in large number of Chinese outbound tourism and aims to attract 150,000 tourists annually.

Chinese tourists restarted to travel overseas in January last year, with the lifting of overseas travel restrictions by the government. Outbound travel from China was largely halted for three years, to prevent transmission of the virus, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kenya, she said is the home of human origin hence people from across the globe are welcome to visit the east African country, to experience the thrill of adventure, enjoy authentic cultural immersive experiences and view teeming and diverse wildlife.

This is in addition to enjoying pristine beaches with warm waters, welcoming and hospitable Kenyans as well as enjoy Nairobi – the best city to visit in year 2024 according to Lonely Planet.

On Wednesday, the Kenya Tourism Board expressed an intention to partner with Zhengzhou Radio and Television station to market Kenya as a tourist destination to Chinese.

“Media plays a very key role in amplifying destination marketing. We are keen to leverage Kenya’s and China’s vibrant media landscapes to keep the tourism narratives alive, telling experiential stories to inspire travel,” Chepkemei said.

She said Kenya Tourism Board is happy to share video content of Kenya’s tourism experiences with Zhengzhou Radio and Television Station. The content will showcase Kenya to Chinese people, aimed at sparking or keeping alive the interest and desire to visit MagicalKenya, an all year-round destination.

To further woo Chinese travelers to Kenya, on May 10, the Kenya Tourism Board in partnership with the Hunan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, launched China-Kenya Tourism Service Platform, aimed at linking Chinese travelers with the Kenyan tourism market.

Towards the end of last year, the board also held roadshows in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou to market Kenya as a year-round destination among Chinese tourists. ‘

The shows involved business-to-business sessions between travel trade officials from Kenya and tour operators from China.

The Kenyan tour operators got an opportunity to reconnect with their counterparts in China and got clear understanding of the tourists’ interests and preferences.

Source: China Daily.

Dubai Tourism signs deal to ease payments

The Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) and Al Ansari Exchange have signed an agreement to facilitate payments for a range of tourism and travel-related services.

Under the agreement, partners of Dubai Tourism, including hotels, event organisers, tour operators and tourism companies, will be able to make payments for services through 183 branches of Al Ansari Exchange across the UAE.

The agreement was signed by Ahmed Khalifa Alfalasi, CEO of corporate services and investments, Dubai Tourism, and Rashed Ali Al Ansari, general manager of Al Ansari Exchange.

Alfalasi said: “The partnership will take our payment system to the next level of reliability and convenience. This agreement means that our partners no longer need to visit Dubai Tourism offices to make payments.”

Al Ansari said: “We are pleased to collaborate with Dubai Tourism to enable customers to pay the travel and tourism services fees through our wide branch network across the UAE. Under this agreement, all companies, organisations and individuals working in the travel and tourism sector are able now to make payments with ease and convenience.”

Source: Khaleej Times.

MICE industry has bounced back

South Africa’s MICE industry has bounced back from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Gary Koetser, CEO of Century City Conference Centre and Hotels in Cape Town.

In an interview with Tourism Update, Koetser said the MICE industry “took a hell of a knock during COVID”, and that there was much talk at the time that conferencing would never be the same again.

However, in retrospect, there were many positives for MICE that came out of COVID, Koetser believes.

One of these positives was that people realised the critical need for in-person meetings and interactions.

‘Doing unbelievably well’

Koetser said that, in fact, the MICE industry was doing unbelievably well, and he provided the following stats from Century City to prove his point:

Average size of conferences has increased by 26% in Q1 of 2024 compared with Q1 of 2023.

Revenues have grown by 24% in the Conference Centre when comparing Q1 of 2024 with Q1 of 2023.

Delegates attending conferences have a longer length of stay. The average length of stay from conference delegates is 15% longer than other market segments such as traditional corporate and leisure guests. They stay for the conference and then have either added on days to their itinerary for other meetings or leisure.

11 International conferences are already secured for the next 12 months compared with six in the previous year. These conferences will bring over 6 000 delegates to Century City and amount to approximately R40 million (€2m) in revenue for the local economy.

Booking pace is up 15% this year compared with last year for the next six months (July-December), and forecasted to be 21% up on revenue compared with the same period last year.

R15 million (€758 660) investment into a new venue, The Verve, and refurbishment of the Conference Centre, which commenced in July 2023 and was fully completed in March 2024.

“Some hotels can host up to 300 delegates, maybe 350 at a push, and then the Cape Town International Convention Centre can accommodate the larger conferences from 1 500 delegates upwards. Therefore our Conference Centre was purpose-built for conferences between 350 and 1 200 delegates,” said Koetser.

He added that the Conference Centre was driving occupancy into the six or seven surrounding hotels, which are all within walking distance of the Conference Centre as well as foot traffic into the numerous restaurants in the area. Shopping at the neighbouring shopping centre Canal Walk was also very popular with conference attendees.

‘Confercation

Koetser said Century City had coined a new phrase – ‘confercation’ – (conferencing with vacation), similar to the ‘bleisure’ trend, and that it seemed to be increasingly popular.

“We’re also seeing an increase in, and it is something that we are promoting, bringing your partner with you when you come to Cape Town for a conference. And this is something we’ll be promoting soon, partners staying for free when traveling with their spouse to a conference.”

He also said that Century City was seeing a longer average length of stay for delegates conferencing at the Centre due to Cape Town being an attractive city for both business and leisure.

SME involvement

Century City Conference Centre is currently busy with numerous initiatives to involve SMEs in the MICE sector.

“We’re creating an art gallery within our Centre, all comprising young, up-and-coming previously disadvantaged artists to showcase their various pieces of art. There’s a story of them as the artist and their background, and then a story about the actual piece of art that they are displaying.”

Century City Conference Centre has also approached other SMEs to showcase their products at the property. For example, the women in the townships who are making beaded bangles and bags.

“We’re going to give them space in the Conference Centre, almost creating a ‘mini arts and craft market’ where conference attendees can go and buy from these small entrepreneurs that are making unbelievable products from recycled materials,” said Koetser.

Its food and menus also add to the African experience in the Centre, such as a Bo-Kaap Cape Malay-type menu or a traditional South African braai menu.

‘Share sustainability ideas’

Koetser highlighted that, in addition to large corporations and associations asking for Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment scorecards or safety and security measures before they could do business, they are now also asking to see data from a sustainability point of view.

“We’ve partnered with a company that provides software to measure our sustainability efforts so that we can hold ourselves accountable in terms of showing impact month-on-month, year-on-year”.

“We also make sure that we use the right suppliers that use sustainable materials and that our solar panels are working optimally. A significant contributor to our sustainability efforts is the dual plumbing system throughout our Conference Centre and Hotels. This allows the use of effluent water for toilet flushing, irrigation and potable water for taps and showers.”

He added that there is pressure on the MICE industry to improve its sustainability initiatives and that many corporations shouldn’t use it as a competitive advantage but rather share ideas and initiatives which will benefit the industry as a whole in the future.

“I think the catchphrase for sustainability going forward is going to be accountability, but also transparency,” Koetser concluded.

Source: Tourism Update.

EAC renews joint tourism marketing as Kenya taps influencers

East Africa has revived plans to jointly market the region’s tourism as a bloc, in what could end a decade-long of back and forth among member states, as rivalry played out.

The marketing push builds on the 2023 East African Regional Tourism Expo (EARTE) and the Magical Kenya Tourism Expo (MKTE), where EAC member states agreed to enhance collaboration and adopt an integrated tourism marketing strategy, in order to boost competitiveness, attract more tourists and increase earnings.

Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda are leading the drive under a new EAC brand “Visit East Africa – Feel the Vibe”, launched in November during the regional expo in Nairobi, aimed at promoting the bloc as a single investment and travel hub.

The latest development come even as rivalry remains between Kenya and Tanzania, the biggest safari and beach destinations in the region.

The two countries share the annual wildebeest migration between the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Serengeti National Park, recognised as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World.

Tanzania has been taking advantage of Kenya’s costly products, mainly safari which includes high park entry fees and accommodation packages, to lure international guests to the Serengeti and other destinations.

This, even as the region faces stiff competition from other blocs in Sub-Sahara Africa, which are said to be taking advantage of EAC’s lengthy business procedures, insecurity and poor infrastructure to boost their competitive edge.

According to the World Economic Forum, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania and Burundi have been trailing tourism giants such as Seychelles, Mauritius and South Africa, which have been a threat to EAC’s plans to position the region as the continent’s most attractive tourist destination, an idea mooted a decade ago.

Under the renewed marketing efforts, the EAC is now targeting to attract over 14 million international tourists annually by 2025, from 7.2 million in 2019.

Kenya, on its part, aims to capitalise on this collective momentum in its quest to achieve 5.5 million arrivals and $6.3 billion (Sh 827.6 billion) in tourism earnings by 2028.

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has launched a strategic marketing campaign that involves influencers, to bolster Kenya’s tourism not only globally, but also within the East African Community market.

The board is partnering with renowned social media influencers and key media outlets from EAC member countries with an aim to elevate destination visibility, ignite travel interests and unearth new growth prospects.

Speaking during an event held to welcome the influencers and media contingent, KTB CEO June Chepkemei said that the EAC market has great potential for growth especially through regional integration.

She added that strategic deployment of marketing assets such as influencer marketing and media outreach can be pivotal drivers to spur demand and unlock new markets.

“The East African Regional Tourism Expo deliberations were a stepping stone to greater regional integration. The launch of the unified EAC tourism brand was an apt embodiment of this vision, and this influencer activation and media outreach is designed to further harness our collective strength for mutual benefit,” Chepkemei said.

According to last year’s tourism performance report, four of the top ten source markets to Kenya were from the EAC region – Uganda, Tanzania, Somalia, and Rwanda,  highlighting the potential for growth.

 “With a shared history and cultures, the EAC region is uniquely positioned to offer diverse, multi-country itineraries that capture the imagination of travellers,” said Chepkemei.

Popular social media personalities and content creators from target EAC markets will highlight key attractions across various tourism hotspots spanning from Nairobi, Mt. Kenya, the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru as well as the Coast.

East African Business Council (EABC) has been pushing for the marketing of the region as a single destination, as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA) takes shape.

Tourism, financial sector, manufacturing and hospitality are some of the sectors that EAC member states can package together to the world, according to Chairperson Angelina Ngalula.

“East African countries have abundant resources with unique features from the coast of the Indian Ocean in Kenya and Tanzania, to mountain gorillas in Rwanda, an opportunity for companies to offer regional tourism packages,” Ngalula said.

Source: The Star.

Kenya’s Growing Tourism Market: Trends, Drivers, and Future Prospects

Kenya, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, iconic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, has experienced a robust growth in its tourism market in recent years. This expansion is fueled by strategic initiatives, diversified offerings, and a global reputation for unique travel experiences. This article delves into the factors driving the growth of Kenya’s tourism market, current trends, and the future prospects for this dynamic industry.

Drivers of Growth in Kenya’s Tourism Market

1. Diverse Natural Attractions

Kenya’s natural beauty is a primary magnet for tourists. The country boasts diverse ecosystems, from the arid landscapes of the north to the lush coastal regions, and from the iconic savannas of the Maasai Mara to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya. This diversity supports a wide range of tourism activities, including:

Wildlife Safaris: Kenya’s extensive network of national parks and reserves, such as Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The annual Great Migration of wildebeest in the Maasai Mara is a global spectacle that attracts thousands of visitors.

Beach Tourism: The Indian Ocean coastline, with its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and historical sites like Lamu Island, is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Adventure Tourism: Activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and diving cater to adventure seekers. Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak, is a popular destination for mountaineers.

2. Cultural and Heritage Tourism

Kenya’s rich cultural mosaic, with over 40 ethnic groups, offers a vibrant cultural tourism experience. Traditional music, dance, art, and crafts provide deep insights into Kenya’s cultural heritage. Cultural festivals, such as the Lamu Cultural Festival and the Lake Turkana Festival, celebrate diverse traditions and attract international visitors.

3. Strategic Marketing and Brand Positioning

Kenya’s tourism authorities have invested significantly in marketing campaigns to enhance the country’s global image. The “Magical Kenya” brand has been instrumental in promoting Kenya as a destination for diverse experiences. Digital marketing, social media engagement, and partnerships with international travel influencers have expanded the reach to younger, tech-savvy travelers.

4. Improved Infrastructure and Connectivity

Significant improvements in infrastructure have bolstered Kenya’s appeal as a tourist destination. Upgraded airports, better road networks, and increased flight connectivity have made travel more accessible and convenient. Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) serves as a major hub, connecting Kenya with key international markets.

5. Government Support and Policy Initiatives

The Kenyan government has played a pivotal role in promoting tourism through supportive policies and investments. Initiatives such as the National Tourism Blueprint 2030 outline strategic goals for diversifying tourism products, enhancing destination marketing, and improving regulatory frameworks to support sustainable tourism growth.

Current Trends in Kenya’s Tourism Market

1. Rise of Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Practices

Eco-tourism is gaining momentum as travelers become more environmentally conscious. Kenya’s eco-lodges, community conservancies, and wildlife conservancies exemplify sustainable tourism practices. These initiatives not only provide authentic experiences but also contribute to conservation efforts and local community development.

2. Growth in Domestic and Regional Tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of domestic and regional tourism. Restrictions on international travel led to a surge in local tourism, with Kenyans exploring their own country. Regional tourism within the East African Community (EAC) also saw growth, facilitated by collaborations and joint marketing efforts.

3. Expansion of Niche Tourism Segments

Kenya is diversifying its tourism offerings to cater to niche markets. Bird watching, sports tourism, wellness retreats, and cultural tourism are emerging segments that attract specialized interest groups. Bird watchers are drawn to Kenya’s rich avian biodiversity, while sports enthusiasts participate in events like the Nairobi Marathon and the Lewa Safari Marathon.

4. Digital Transformation and Innovation

The integration of digital technology is transforming the tourism experience. Online booking platforms, virtual tours, and augmented reality (AR) experiences are enhancing customer engagement. Innovations such as cashless transactions, digital guides, and interactive apps are streamlining travel and enhancing visitor satisfaction.

Future Prospects and Strategic Vision

Kenya’s tourism market is poised for sustained growth with a strategic vision that emphasizes sustainability, diversification, and resilience. Key areas of focus for the future include:

1. Enhancing Sustainable Tourism

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s tourism strategy. Efforts to minimize environmental impact, support wildlife conservation, and promote responsible tourism practices will continue to be prioritized. Community-based tourism initiatives will ensure that local populations benefit from tourism revenues and are active participants in conservation efforts.

2. Leveraging Technology and Innovation

Advancements in technology will play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in Kenya. Investments in digital marketing, smart tourism infrastructure, and data analytics will enhance destination management and marketing effectiveness. Virtual reality (VR) and AR technologies will provide immersive previews of attractions, attracting potential visitors.

3. Expanding and Upgrading Infrastructure

Continued investment in infrastructure, including transportation networks, accommodation facilities, and digital connectivity, will be essential to support tourism growth. Plans for new airports, road improvements, and enhanced public transportation will improve accessibility and visitor experiences.

4. Promoting Cultural and Experiential Tourism

Efforts to promote cultural tourism will involve showcasing Kenya’s diverse heritage, traditions, and contemporary arts. Developing authentic cultural experiences, supporting local artisans, and integrating cultural elements into tourism products will enrich the visitor experience.

5. Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships

Collaboration between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and local communities will be crucial for sustainable tourism development. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) will drive investment, innovation, and effective management of tourism resources.

Kenya’s growing tourism market reflects the country’s ability to harness its natural and cultural assets to create compelling travel experiences. With a strategic focus on sustainability, innovation, and diversification, Kenya is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and continue its trajectory as a leading global tourism destination. As the country navigates future challenges and opportunities, the tourism sector will remain a vital pillar of Kenya’s economy and a gateway to its extraordinary natural and cultural treasures.

Later this year the country will proudly host the Africa Gala Ceremony of the World Travel Awards on the 18 October 2024 at Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort Diani Beach.

Source:   Breaking Travel News.  

Tourism board eyes regional markets for growth

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is targeting to increase its marketing activities in order to boost arrivals from the region.

Through the use of local influencers, KTB expects regional countries to contribute a significant portion of 5.5 million arrivals and $6.3 billion in tourism earnings by 2028 according to KTB Chief Executive Officer June Chepkemei.

Chepkemei says strategic deployment of marketing assets such as influencer marketing and media outreach is critical in unlocking new markets within the East African Community (EAC).

“With a shared history and cultures, the EAC region is uniquely positioned to offer diverse, multi-country itineraries that capture the imagination of travelers. By collaborating with influencers and media from key markets, we can shine a spotlight on the breadth of experiences available across the region and inspire new interest in visiting,” said Chepkemei.

The EAC region has set a goal to attract at least 14 million international tourists annually by 2025, from 7.2 million in 2019.

The strategic marketing campaign unveiled by the board has brought together renowned social media influencers and key media outlets from EAC member countries with an aim to elevate destination visibility, ignite travel interests, and unearth new growth prospects.

The influencers are expected to market key attractions across various tourism hotspots spanning from Nairobi, Mt. Kenya, the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru as well as the Coast.

“We have tailored exclusive itineraries for the influencers and media contingent to showcase the diversity of experiences Kenya offers. With their large social media following and ability to create trending content, we are confident that collaborating with these key personalities will catalyse interest in visiting Kenya,” added Chepkemei.

Uganda, Tanzania, Somalia, and Rwanda emerged among Kenya’s top ten tourism source markets last year with potential for growth.

Source: KBC

KATA Convention 2024: Rallying Call for Regional Tourism Integration and Collaboration.

By: Bryan Obala.

Mombasa, June 7, 2024 – The KATA Convention 2024 emerged as a pivotal platform for fostering regional synergy and collaboration within Africa’s tourism landscape. The two-day event, held at the Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort in Mombasa, brought together government officials, international associations, industry leaders, and stakeholders, with a resounding call to unlock the continent’s vast tourism potential through collective efforts.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Patrick Bucha, Tourism Secretary, delivered a keynote address on behalf of Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua of the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife. Bucha emphasized the Kenyan government’s commitment to implementing policies such as the “open skies policy’’, aimed at increasing direct flights to and from the country, a strategic move to boost tourism arrivals and revenue.

“Connectivity is the lifeline of the tourism and hospitality sector,” Bucha stated, citing recent initiatives such as the launch of China Southern Airline’s direct flights between Changsha and Nairobi, as well as the inauguration of Air Brussels’ six weekly flights to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Recognizing the need to diversify Kenya’s tourism offerings, the Ministry’s ambitious project to market the country as the “Home of Human Origins.” This initiative focuses on showcasing Kenya’s rich archaeological and paleontological findings, including the development of a museum and science park at the Lake Turkana Basin to highlight the nation’s human heritage.

Bucha further endorsed the diversification of tourism offerings beyond conventional staples, advocating for medical tourism and acknowledging the private sector’s pioneering role in fostering innovation within the travel industry.

The convention witnessed a strong emphasis on regional collaboration, with H.E. Amb. Paul Mukumbya, the Consul General of Uganda based in Mombasa, highlighting the importance of economic and commercial diplomacy with Kenya. Mukumbya expressed gratitude for the partnership with KATA in organizing the successful Uganda-Kenya Coast Festival and reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to increasing visitor numbers from its largest source market, Kenya.

“We must overcome the existing seasonality between our neighboring markets and address travel advisories,” Mukumbya urged travel agents, while also encouraging investment in cruise ship tourism on Lake Victoria to enhance cross-border tourism.

Echoing the call for regional integration, Pearl Houreau, Chairperson of the Uganda Travel Agents Association, emphasized the necessity for travel agents to engage policymakers in operationalizing a unified visa among African countries. “Such a visa would significantly enhance intra-Africa travel, making it easier for tourists to move across borders and boosting regional tourism,” Houreau stated.

Patrick Kimenyi, Secretary for Rwanda Travel Agencies, stressed the need to promote African destinations, lamenting that Africans often know more about other continents than their own. “We must raise awareness and appreciation for the diverse travel opportunities within Africa,” he underscored.

Hamida Malik, Chairperson of the Travel Agents of Zambia Association, encouraged Kenyans to visit the “hidden gem” that is Zambia, revealing that an MOU has been signed with the Kenyan government to facilitate travel between the two countries. Malik also highlighted efforts to streamline visa issues, making travel between Kenya and Zambia more accessible and appealing.

As the KATA Convention 2024 drew to a close, it served as a testament to the collective aspiration of fostering regional synergy and collaboration within Africa’s tourism landscape. By convening industry leaders, stakeholders, and policymakers from across the continent, the convention paved the way for a more integrated and prosperous future for the region’s travel and tourism sector.

Charting A New Course for Travel In Climate-Challenged Kenya

Charting A New Course for Travel In Climate-Challenged Kenya

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 28 – In recent months, rains have been ravaging Kenya resulting in devastating floods that swept across the country leaving an indelible mark on the country’s landscape and its people.

From the sprawling plains of the Maasai Mara to the bustling streets of Nairobi, the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly hard to ignore. This situation is not unique to Kenya, our neighbours in Tanzania and Burundi have faced a similar situation.

As we grapple with these environmental challenges, we must rethink our approach to travel and tourism in the region. Ecotourism, with its emphasis on sustainability and community benefits, offers a path forward that can help mitigate the impacts of climate change while preserving Kenya’s rich natural heritage.

The recent floods in Kenya are a stark reminder of our vulnerability to climate change. It has resulted in significant challenges for local and urban communities, disrupted wildlife habitats, and destroyed vital tourism infrastructure. Experts warn that such extreme weather patterns are likely to become more common as global temperatures rise. This not only threatens Kenya’s biodiversity but also its tourism industry, which is a significant component of the economy considering it was rated the best performing sector  in Kenya, by the government a few months ago.

Ecotourism should be regarded as a critical solution to the challenges affecting tourism sites as a result of the adverse effects of climate change. By focusing on conservation, education, and community engagement, ecotourism ensures that tourism activities do not harm the environment but rather contribute to its preservation. Take, for instance, the Maasai Mara where many establishments were partially or fully submerged. This resulted in disruptions in tourism activities, displaced animals and loss of revenue to the local community managing tourism activities while also protecting wildlife.

How can we address the issue? Tourism operators must integrate sustainable practices into their operations. As industry stakeholders, we need to take the lead in supporting and initiating conservation projects. We have an opportunity to implement green practices, such as minimizing carbon footprints and supporting local conservation projects.

We can encourage travellers to play a significant role in promoting sustainability by making conscious choices. Opting for eco-friendly lodges, reducing plastic use, and participating in conservation activities are just a few ways they can contribute.  At Hemingways Travel we have pioneered this by deploying tools that can calculate the carbon emission activities undertaken by the clients. We have also partnered with accredited bodies for carbon credit offset where organizations can offset their credits through payments or participation in activities that generate carbon credits.

Sustainable tourism not only protects the environment but also brings substantial benefits to local communities. It creates jobs, funds education, and healthcare initiatives, and reduces reliance on unsustainable practices such as poaching. For instance, the success of marine conservation efforts in Watamu is largely due to the involvement of local communities in ecotourism activities.

As we navigate the challenges posed by climate change, it is clear that sustainable tourism must be at the heart of our response. By embracing ecotourism, we can protect Kenya’s natural treasures, support local communities, and build a resilient future.

Source: Capital Fm