TUGATA Celebrates 25th Anniversary with call to Bridge Innovation and Sustainability.

Kampala, 21st May 2024 – The Kampala Sheraton Hotel hosted the travel industry’s determination to embrace a sustainable and innovative future as the Uganda Association of Travel Agents (TUGATA) celebrated its 25th anniversary. The well-attended convention brought together industry leaders, government officials, and international partners, setting the stage for thought-provoking discussions and actionable strategies under the theme “Bridging Innovation and Sustainability Gaps in the Travel Industry.”

Hon. Martin Mugarra Butime, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the pressing need to integrate advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and collaborative strategies to address environmental and social challenges within the sector. Butime advised travel agents to educate travelers on sustainable tourism practices, such as respecting local cultures, reducing waste, and supporting local economies, which can foster more responsible travel behaviors.

The Minister’s words resonated, highlighting the potential of public-private partnerships in funding sustainability initiatives and the importance of community involvement in ensuring tourism benefits local populations. He assured TUGATA of the government’s collaboration and support in advancing their development aspirations.

Pearl Hoareau Kakooza, the Chairperson of TUGATA, commended partners and the parent ministry for recognizing the association’s contributions to the wider tourism sector. She acknowledged the invaluable partnerships and stakeholder engagements that have fostered strong relationships with organizations like Dubai Tourism, South African Tourism, and Travelport.

Regional collaboration was evident as delegates from the regional affiliate associations, Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), Tanzania Society of Travel Agents (TASOTA), and Rwanda Association of Travel Agencies (RATA), attended the convention. The shared challenges and opportunities within the East African travel industry underscored the need for a united front in driving innovation and sustainability.

Tareq Binbrek, the Manager for the Africa Region at Dubai Economic and Tourism, highlighted Dubai’s readiness to welcome travelers and companies from the region, emphasizing the city’s diverse offerings as the world’s number one tourist destination.

The convention marked a significant milestone, as Uganda’s travel industry demonstrated remarkable resilience, with tourist arrivals increasing by 56.4% according to statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife & Antiquities. This encouraging trend points towards a full recovery, albeit with uncertainties that require vigilant monitoring and adaptation of strategies.

As the event concluded, the collective resolve to bridge innovation and sustainability gaps in the travel industry was palpable. TUGATA and its affiliate associations’ commitment to fairness, transparency, and ethical practices, as well as their mission to offer viable and excellent travel solutions while promoting friendly relationships between clients and their members, resonated among attendees.

The 25th anniversary celebration signified not merely a commemoration of the past but a bold step towards shaping a future where innovation and sustainability converge, propelling the travel industry towards a more responsible and prosperous era.

Source: KATA Media Desk.

Dubai’s Department of Economy & Tourism Roadshow – East Africa, Nairobi Edition 2024

The annual Dubai Tourism Roadshow in East Africa is back, and this year, it promises to be an even more remarkable experience for the travel and tourism industry professionals in Kenya. Scheduled for June 10th, this event comes hot on the heels of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, amplifying the momentum and engagement opportunities for participants who attended the prestigious expo.

As the world emerges from the challenges of the pandemic, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is taking a strategic approach to positioning Dubai as a premier travel destination in the new age of travel. This year’s Roadshow presents a unique platform for players to strategically position themselves as experts in selling the allure of Dubai to their clients.

A Diverse Showcase of Dubai’s Offerings

One of the highlights of the Dubai Tourism Roadshow is the diverse range of participants from Dubai’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industry. Airlines, hotels, destination management companies, entertainment providers, and hospitals have all come together to showcase their offerings, giving participants a comprehensive understanding of the breadth and depth of experiences available in Dubai.

For those seeking to curate unforgettable Dubai experiences for their clients, this event is a treasure trove of opportunities. From discovering the city’s luxurious accommodations to exploring the breathtaking landscapes and indulging in world-class entertainment, the Roadshow offers a one-stop-shop for crafting tailored itineraries that cater to every traveler’s desires.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

Beyond the exhibitor showcases, the Dubai Tourism Roadshow also presents a platform for networking and collaboration. Participants have the chance to connect with industry experts, share ideas, and establish valuable contacts that could lead to potential partnerships and joint ventures.

As Dubai continues to invest heavily in its healthcare infrastructure, becoming a medical tourism hub, the Roadshow also provides an opportunity for exploring the cutting-edge medical treatments and services available in the city. Healthcare professionals and institutions in Kenya can leverage this event to explore potential collaborations and partnerships with Dubai’s renowned hospitals.

Exciting Raffle Prizes and Giveaways

To add an extra layer of excitement to the event, Dubai’s partners are offering fantastic raffle prizes and giveaways. Attendees have the chance to win flights, accommodation, activities, and much more in Dubai. This enticing rewards underscore Dubai’s commitment to making dreams come true for East African travelers and provide an added incentive for you to attend and engage with the exhibitors.

Dubai awaits with open arms, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism is ready to make the connection happen. Don’t miss this chance to unlock the magic of Dubai and embark on a journey filled with endless possibilities.

KATA News.

Gulf countries announce unified Schengen style visa

In a landmark move, six Gulf countries have joined hands to introduce a Schengen-like unified “Grand Visa,” which will let tourists travel from one Gulf country to another without having to obtain another visa.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) announced the launch of a single tourist visa, which will be available by the end of 2024, Travel and Tour reported.

The announcement was made during the 40th meeting of GCC ministers in Oman.

Travellers obtaining this visa will have unrestricted access to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Bahrain.

This visa is intended to promote and grow the tourism sector in the area and enhance greater collaboration among like-minded countries.

In addition, it will also give these oil-dependent countries a chance to increase revenue from non-oil sectors.

As per reports, the Grand Visa will allow tourists a minimum of a 30-day visa.

Abdullah Al Saleh, undersecretary for the Ministry of Economy, said during the panel discussion that “all GCC countries have one common market and unified policies. In the tourism sector, the GCC can benefit from both supply and demand sides by having umbrella regulations, policies, and procedures to facilitate growth.

“Now, with the increased flow of people among the GCC, it is becoming smoother with time.”

Source:  The News.

Chinese market a pillar of KQs’ global business.

A top Kenya Airways executive has described Chinese market as a pillar of the airline’s global business given its competitive nature and a promising future.

“We see a good fiscal year ahead since China’s aviation performance is robust, which has given us confidence in the Chinese market,” Julius Thairu, chief commercial and customer officer with the airline, said during an interview with Xinhua.

After entering the Chinese market in 2005, the Kenyan carrier flies weekly routes from Nairobi to South China’s Guangzhou city. Thairu said that next year, the 20th anniversary of the company’s entering the Chinese market, a new direct flight from Nairobi to Beijing will be launched.

“From capital to capital, and from Kenya to other African countries, easier transportation will bring us closer,” he said, adding that China remains Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years.

Kenya is China’s largest trading partner in East Africa, while China is Kenya’s largest trading partner and source of imports.

Tourism resources

With its rich tourism resources and eased visa policy for foreign visitors, Kenya has become a popular destination for Chinese tourists. Thairu said KQ is partnering with several Chinese airlines on interline agreements, ground operations, and code sharing. It has been recruiting Chinese-speaking cabin crews to better serve the expanding market.

After visiting Beijing to attend the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in 2006, Thairu has been to cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou and Changsha, and was amazed at how modern those cities are.      

Source:  PD.  

Industry Makes Progress to Reduce Baggage Mishandling, New Survey Reveals

Reykjavík – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a global progress report on the implementation of baggage tracking. Focused on IATA Resolution 753, which requires tracking baggage at acceptance, loading, transfer and arrival, the survey of 155 airlines and 94 airports reveals that:

44% of airlines have fully implemented Resolution 753 and a further 41% are in progress.

Regional variation in airline full adoption rates vary from 88% in China and North Asia, to 60% in the Americas, 40% in Europe and Asia-Pacific, and 27% in Africa.

75% of airports surveyed have the capability for Resolution 753 baggage tracking.

Airport preparedness for Resolution 753 varies by size*: 75% of mega airports are capable, 85% of major airports, 82% of large airports and 61% of medium airports.

Optical barcode scanning is the dominant tracking technology implemented by the majority of airports (73%) surveyed. Tracking using RFID, which is more efficient, is implemented in 27% of surveyed airports. Notably, RFID technology has seen higher adoption rates at mega airports, with 54% already implementing this advanced tracking system.

“Between 2007 and 2022 baggage mishandling reduced by nearly 60%. That is good news. But travelers expect better; and the industry is determined to make further improvements. Tracking bags at acceptance, loading, transfer and delivery will give the industry the data it needs to improve. Tracking reduces overall mishandlings and helps airlines reunite mishandled bags with their owners even faster. With 44% of airlines already fully implementing Resolution 753 tracking and a further 41% in progress, travelers can have even more confidence that their bags will be at the carousel on arrival,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA Director Ground Operations.

In 2022, the global rate of mishandled bags was 7.6 per 1,000 passengers, according to SITA. The majority of these were returned within 48 hours.

Accelerating Modern Baggage Messaging

Resolution 753 requires airlines to exchange baggage tracking messages with interline partners and their agents. The current baggage messaging infrastructure depends on legacy technologies using costly Type B messaging. This high cost adversely affects the implementation of Resolution 753 and contributes to issues with message quality, leading to an increase in baggage mishandling.

IATA is leading the industry’s transition from Type B to modern baggage messaging based on XML standards. The first pilot to test modern baggage messaging between airport and airlines is planned for launch in 2024.

“Adopting modern messaging is the equivalent of implementing a new standard, intelligible language for use by airlines, airports, and ground handling staff so they can effectively communicate about passenger luggage. In addition to helping reduce the number of mishandled bags implementation also sets the stage for ongoing innovations in baggage management systems,” said Mejstrikova.

Background

IATA resolution 753 was adopted by June in 2018. In 2024, IATA launched a campaign to assist airlines with the implementation. The campaign focuses on collecting data on the implementation status of airlines and providing support to member airlines to develop and execute their implementation plans. This initiative underscores IATA’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiencies and standards across the industry.

*Airport size classification:

Medium: 5-15 million

Large: 15–25 million

Major: 25–40 million

Mega: >40 million

Source:  Tourism News Africa.  

ASATA joins Association of Eastern and Southern Africa Travel Agents

ASATA is taking its advocacy efforts to new heights by officially joining the Association of Eastern and Southern Africa Travel Agents (AESATA) as a new member. This partnership unlocks new collaboration and growth opportunities for its members.

South African travel agents are set to benefit from strengthened regional ties and a unified advocacy platform through this partnership, which connects ASATA with travel agent associations from 10 other countries. Together, they will collectively tackle cross-border challenges, promote intra-Africa travel, and drive sustainable business growth across the region.

Through AESATA, ASATA members gain access to shared insights on key industry trends and patterns impacting the travel sector in Eastern and Southern Africa. The collaboration allows South African travel agencies to have a stronger, unified voice in advocating for policies that create an enabling environment for business development.

“Joining AESATA is a game-changer for our members,” said Otto de Vries, CEO of ASATA. “Cross-border cooperation is crucial for our industry’s long-term success. By partnering with our peers, we open up new opportunities to learn from one another, forge regional partnerships, and ensure travel agencies’ interests are prioritised as drivers of sustainable tourism growth across Africa.”

AESATA provides a platform for national associations to jointly tackle issues of mutual importance, such as rebuilding resilient travel business models, promoting intra-Africa travel, and aligning policies to uphold responsible tourism practices. A key focus is leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area to unlock the continent’s full potential for travel and tourism.

The upcoming 2024 AESATA Conference in Kigali, Rwanda in May will convene under the theme “Beyond Borders, Beyond Limits” – a call for travel agents to innovate, collaborate regionally, and future-proof their businesses.

ASATA’s new membership underscores the association’s vision for an integrated, prosperous, and competitive Southern African travel industry. Through fostering cross-border cooperation, ASATA aims to empower its members to deliver exceptional service and travel experiences for customers across the region and globally.

About ASATA

Established in 1956, the Association of Southern African Travel Agents is a representative forum registered as an Association of Persons, that promotes professional service in the travel industry for both members and their clients. Representing over 99% of the travel industry in terms of market share, ASATA’s membership is voluntary and includes South African retail travel agents, travel management companies, wholesalers and suppliers of travel-related products and services.

Source:  Tourism News Africa.  

Renegade Air Supports KATA Kisumu Travel Agents Forum.

Travel Agents in Kisumu on Tuesday gathered at the Acacia Premier Hotel for this year’s Kisumu Travel Agents Forum hosted by KATA and supported by Renegade Air. The forum brought together agents and operators from the larger Western region tourism circuit and explored the topic “Unlocking Opportunities: Empowering Travel and Tourism in the Lake Region.”

At the forum, participants discussed the potential growth of the travel business in the western Kenya region and the role domestic carriers such as Renegade Air play in supporting local economies. The Chairperson of KATA Allied members and KATA Board member Grace Ndung’u spoke about the role KATA plays in supporting travel agencies in the country and called upon agents who were not members to consider joining the membership. Patrick Oketch, the Marketing and Sales Officer at Renegade Air, lauded the support travel agents were giving the airline, noting that over 60% of the airline’s sales were generated by Travel Agents. He reiterated the airline’s commitment to continue working with agents and offering them support whenever they required. Charles of Sandah Travel and Tours shared with participants how KATA had helped him build his business grow since joining in 2023. “Through KATA, I have been able to participate in international travel shows in South Africa twice, and now I am headed to Dubai for the Arabian Travel Market (ATM). These international shows are helping me build my international profile and networks.

Hyper-personalization: Will it contribute to sales and the travel industry in 2024?

As hyper-personalization goes beyond the usual strategies that have been used so far to benefit travel needs, there are advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning that may be able to provide the necessary services that travelers need.

Martin Eade from travel search and booking technology provider Vibe believes there’s a lot riding on this. “This is the holy grail of personalization and the first company to get this right will have a real first mover advantage. After all, why would customers switch from a hotel or airline that can anticipate their needs before they even know them themselves?”.

“The aim is to create strategies that make each guest feel special and unique, instead of feeling like a faceless member of a generic market segment. But before companies can achieve hyper-personalization, they need to shift their focus from the product to the client, developing a customer-centric strategy. Harnessing data will help them to understand exactly who their clients are, how they behave, and what they expect when they come to stay at a hotel, or travel on a specific airline.” commented Rubén Sánchez, CEO of the leading hotel revenue management platform BEONx.

Another way artificial intelligence can enable hyper-personalization is via automation. “Valuable, quick ‘recipes’ for automation will allow hoteliers to create predictable, reliable processes so they take their hands off keyboards and create more unique human-to-human interactions. At Cloudbeds, we’re building toward a world where AI-powered automations check out guests, trigger emails for last-minute reservations, add notes for housekeeping when a VIP guest arrives, and create in-depth reports with insights that drive better decisions. When a hotelier’s days become less manual, their guests’ personalized experience will soar.” said Adam Harris, Co-Founder and CEO of Cloudbeds. At the same time, Mr. Harris believes that hospitality technology platform powers more bookings and happier guests for independent accommodation operators around the world.

Gareth Matthews, Chief Marketing Officer at global travel distribution provider Didatravel thinks the industry might finally be in a position to offer elements of this to travelers in 2024.  As a final thought Craig Everett, Founder and CEO from Holibob, the experiences tech provider to tourism boards and online travel sellers, comments that hyper-personalization might lead to a related new trend: hyper-localisation. “Not only do these new technologies empower travel companies to develop a more intricate knowledge of their traveller, but they also fast-track deeper contextual understanding of their interests in relation to their destination. This has the opportunity to unlock a level of hyper-local, hyper-relevant online recommendations that could finally push the experiences sector into the online realm.

Source: Money-Tourism.gr

Etihad Airways Unveils Daily Service to Nairobi reconnecting East Africa with the UAE.

12 Apr 2024 – By Bryan Obala.

Etihad Airways is gearing up to reconnect East Africa with a brand-new daily service to Nairobi, slated to kick off on May 1, 2024.

In partnership with the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), Etihad Airways is pulling out all the stops for a spectacular launch event. This exclusive occasion will take place at the newly inaugurated JW Marriott Hotel, the tallest hotel in Kenya boasting an impressive 35 storeys.

This non-stop flight will whisk passengers from Etihad’s hub in Abu Dhabi to Nairobi, with departure scheduled for 9:05 and arrival at 13:15 local time. Return flights will depart Nairobi at 18:10, arriving back in Abu Dhabi at 00:20.

Operating this route will be the Airbus A320 aircraft, boasting both business and economy cabins to cater to diverse passenger needs.

Beyond simply facilitating travel, this service heralds a vital reestablishment of direct commercial connections between these two vibrant cities. It’s poised to catalyze a surge in cross-business collaborations and trade opportunities between the United Arab Emirates and Kenya.

Excited to embark on this journey? Tickets are already available for purchase via Etihad Airways’ website. Secure your seat now and get ready to explore the wonders of East Africa like never before!

Qatar Airways Announces the Launch of Flights to Democratic Republic of Congo

Qatar Airways announces the latest expansion of its network to include Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), enabling greater frequencies and increased capacity to Luanda, Angola.

This latest network expansion  provides passengers with greater travel choices within a key region of Africa,  opening up a new entry point for international travel from Africa to China, Europe and the India Subcontinent using Doha, Qatar, as a gateway. The addition of Kinshasa increases the number of destinations in Africa served by the award-winning airline to twenty-nine.

Starting from the first of June 2024, Luanda will see a frequency increase from one weekly flight to four weekly flights with a combined service to Kinshasa which Qatar Airways will serve for the first time. For a world-class experience, the new route will be served by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, equipped with 22 Business Class seats and 232 Economy Class seats.

Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: “We have seen significant milestones in our 2024 network expansion and this latest addition is particularly special, as it continues our strategic goal of increasing our footprint in Africa.”

“The inclusion of Kinshasa in our network is the latest manifestation of our efforts to improve connectivity to Africa. Qatar Airways has showcased its commitment to the region by providing passengers in Africa with greater choice to explore different corners of the world through our network and our hub in Doha, Hamad International Airport.”

Source: Airspace-Africa.