KATA Strengthens Coastal Partnerships Ahead of 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

In the lead-up to the highly anticipated 45th AGM & Convention of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), the coast chapter led by Coast Regional Liaison Patrick Kamanga and KATA Coast Executive Joan Wande, undertook a series of high-level courtesy visits to key hospitality and financial institutions in Mombasa.

The team engaged with leading stakeholders across the region, including PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort, Convention Centre & Spa, which will host this year’s convention, as well as Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, Voyager Beach Resort – Heritage Hotels, Travellers Beach Hotel & Club, and Sapphire Hotel. On the financial services front, KATA held productive discussions with representatives from NCBA Bank, I&M Bank, ABSA Bank, and Commercial International Bank (CIB).

These engagements reflect KATA’s commitment to building strong institutional partnerships that support the growth of Kenya’s travel and tourism sector. Discussions focused on mutual collaboration, co-marketing opportunities, financial solutions for travel businesses, and strengthening the regional tourism ecosystem.

“The Coast region plays a vital role in Kenya’s travel economy. These visits were not only about the upcoming AGM but about building enduring relationships that will shape the future of travel and tourism,” said Patrick Kamanga, KATA’s Coast Regional Liaison. “We are grateful for the warm reception and look forward to working closely with our partners in the region.”

The visits are part of KATA’s wider strategy to reinforce regional representation and ensure that travel agents across the country benefit from active engagement and new opportunities.

Building Momentum for the KATA 45th Annual Convention

The partnership drive comes just weeks before the KATA 45th Annual Convention, scheduled for June 26–28, 2025, at PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort in Mombasa. This year’s theme, “Going Further, Together,” is already coming to life through initiatives like these.

With over 350 delegates expected, including travel agents, airlines, tourism suppliers, government officials, and international guests, the convention promises to be a landmark event in Kenya’s travel & tourism calendar. It will feature panel discussions, networking sessions, an exhibition showcase, and renewed focus on sustainability and digital transformation.

KATA Chairman Dr. Joseph Kithitu and CEO Nicanor Sabula have reiterated the convention’s role as a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and policy dialogue across the travel value chain.

“KATA is not just convening a convention , we are convening the future,” said CEO Sabula. “These visits represent the groundwork we are laying to ensure that the coastal region is fully integrated into our national and regional travel agenda.”

Environmental Sustainability on the Agenda

The convention will also spotlight KATA’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, including its recent mangrove restoration initiative in Mikindani. Through raffle ticket sales during the convention, funds will be raised to support further environmental conservation, with an ambitious target to plant over 20,000 mangrove trees in the next two years.

As the countdown to June 26 begins, KATA’s presence and partnerships in the Coast region signal more than preparation,it is a growing movement to unite stakeholders, empower the travel ecosystem, and drive sustainable tourism forward.

For more information on the KATA 45th Annual Convention and how to register, visit www.katakenya.org

ASKY Airlines Increases Flight Frequency to Nairobi, Adds Nouakchott to Its Growing Network

ASKY Airlines is ramping up its East African operations by increasing flight frequency between Lomé and Nairobi to four times a week, starting July 11, 2025. This temporary enhancement will run through August 1, 2025, ahead of a new flight schedule that takes effect from August 2, 2025.

The increased frequency on the Lomé–Nairobi route responds to growing demand from business and leisure travellers looking for reliable, efficient connections between West/Central Africa and East/Southern Africa. The route is served by ASKY’s Boeing 737-800, offering passengers comfort, safety, and a touch of African hospitality.

Flight Schedule: Until August 1, 2025

  • KP 079 Nairobi to Lomé – Departs 09:05hrs / Arrives 11:40hrsMon, Wed, Fri, and Sat (from July 12)
  • KP 078 Lomé to Nairobi – Departs 12:40hrs / Arrives 21:25hrsTue, Thu, Sun, and Fri (from July 11)

Flight Schedule: Effective August 2, 2025

  • KP 079 Nairobi to Lomé – Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat
  • KP 078 Lomé to Nairobi – Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

Also Read: Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

The enhanced connectivity aims to support increasing regional economic activity, foster tourism, and strengthen links between Nairobi and key political and commercial cities across West Africa.

ASKY Adds Nouakchott to Its Network

In another major milestone, ASKY Airlines will launch flights to Nouakchott, Mauritania, starting August 2, 2025, completing its coverage of all West African capitals. With this addition, ASKY continues to position itself as the leading Pan-African airline, connecting 30 cities across Africa and offering a modern, efficient travel experience.

A Growing Footprint Across Africa

ASKY’s expansion is backed by a growing fleet that includes:

  • 10 Boeing 737-800s (154 seats: 16 Business / 138 Economy)
  • 5 Boeing 737-MAX aircraft (160 seats: 16 Business / 144 Economy)

This latest move reinforces ASKY’s mission to enhance intra-African air travel, bridge key regional markets, and enable smoother cross-border movement for both passengers and cargo.

Book Your Flight Today

Travellers and agents can book flights or learn more at www.flyasky.com / Reservations: +254 732 247 000 or book with their KATA certified Agent Here. Trade partners interested in collaboration opportunities may contact the Kenya office via nbokpgsacto@flyasky.com / nbokpgsacto1@flyasky.com / nbokpgsacto5@flyasky.com
.

Flightlink Launches Direct Flights from Nairobi to Zanzibar

In an exciting development for travellers, Tanzanian regional airline Flightlink has unveiled a new direct flight route from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Zanzibar, effective 1st July 2025. The move marks a bold step in expanding regional air connectivity and offers a much-anticipated link between Kenya’s bustling capital and Tanzania’s idyllic spice island.

Whether you are a local resident seeking a seamless weekend getaway or an international visitor looking to pair a Nairobi safari with a beachside escape, Flightlink’s new route brings Zanzibar within easy reach. With daily departures and well-timed flight schedules, travellers can now transition effortlessly from cityscape to seascape.

From JKIA to Paradise

This new service is set to redefine regional travel convenience. By operating out of JKIA — Kenya’s busiest international hub, Flightlink ensures that passengers arriving from Europe, Asia, and the Americas can connect directly to Zanzibar without the need for complex domestic transfers.

“Zanzibar is a dream destination, and now it’s just a short, direct flight away from Nairobi,” said Captain Afzal Kermeli from Flightlink. “We’re excited to give Kenyan travellers and international visitors alike a faster, easier, and more comfortable way to experience the magic of Tanzania’s coast.”

Also Read: Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

Comfort Meets Convenience

The JKIA-Zanzibar flights will be operated using modern ATR 72-500 aircraft, offering a smooth and spacious travel experience. Each passenger will enjoy a generous 23kg baggage allowance, perfect for both vacationers and business travellers. Flightlink’s regional booking systems are also tailored to support travel agents and tour operators in planning seamless East African itineraries.

A Gateway to More Adventures

This expansion into Kenya marks a milestone for Flightlink, a carrier with over 20 years of experience across Tanzanian skies. The airline is best known for its connectivity to Serengeti, Dar es Salaam, and Arusha, and now, with Nairobi added to its network, Flightlink is making cross-border travel simpler and smarter.

In addition to the Nairobi–Zanzibar route, Flightlink will also launch flights between Nairobi’s Wilson Airport and Arusha. This second route is designed to serve safari-goers, offering early morning departures and return flights that align with popular tour schedules.

As demand for intra-African travel continues to rise, Flightlink’s new routes signal a growing commitment to unlocking regional tourism potential and making East Africa more accessible than ever.

Bookings Now Open

Travellers and agents can book flights or learn more at www.flightlink.co.tz or book with their KATA certified Agent Here. Trade partners interested in collaboration opportunities may contact the Kenya office via marketing.kenya@flightlink.co.tz.

Easing traffic in Dubai: 57 road projects underway to reduce travel time

Dubai: Dubai is pressing ahead with a massive overhaul of its road network as part of efforts to ease traffic congestion and improve daily commutes for residents.

Under the supervision of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has rolled out 57 road infrastructure projects to be completed by 2027.

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The developments include 226 kilometers of new roads and 115 bridges and tunnels, aimed at preparing the city to support a growing population expected to reach 8 million by 2040.

These upgrades target Dubai’s busiest traffic corridors, with some projects slashing commute times by more than 75%.

Sheikh Hamdan recently reviewed the progress of strategic road infrastructure projects focused on improving traffic flow and preparing the city for a projected population of 8 million by 2040. These developments are part of an integrated Master Plan to upgrade 11 primary road corridors, designed to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion across key areas in the emirate.

Key road corridor upgrades

Umm Suqeim—Al Qudra Corridor

One of the flagship projects, the upgrade of the 16-kilometre Umm Suqeim—Al Qudra Corridor, includes 7,000 metres of bridges and tunnels and is expected to reduce travel time from 46 minutes to 11 minutes. The project serves over 1 million residents and is being delivered in three phases, with the first already 50% complete.

Hessa street upgrade

The Hessa Street expansion features 9,000 metres of bridges over four intersections. Once completed, it will double road capacity from 4,000 to 8,000 vehicles per hour and cut travel time from 30 minutes to 7 minutes, easing travel for around 640,000 residents. The project also includes a 13.5-km cycling and e-scooter track with landmark bridges over Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road.

Al Fay Road Corridor

This key arterial route is being extended to boost capacity for an additional 64,400 vehicles per hour. The project involves 12,900 metres of roads and 13,500 metres of bridges across five upgraded intersections, directly benefiting approximately 600,000 residents.

Rapid traffic relief on Sheikh Zayed Road

Between January and April 2025, Dubai implemented seven quick-win traffic initiatives on Sheikh Zayed Road, which collectively reduced congestion by 5—10%. Key measures included a dynamic tolling system, resulting in a 9% drop in traffic volume and a 4% rise in public transport use. Parking reforms also helped ease congestion and encouraged more commuters to shift to sustainable transport.

Smart technologies speed up projects delivery

Dubai is leveraging AI-powered monitoring systems, drones, and time-lapse imaging to accelerate road construction and improve project oversight. These tools have doubled on-site supervision, reduced survey times by 60%, and cut delays by 20% through early detection of issues.

Also Read: Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

Cycling infrastructure expansion

Complementing road upgrades, Dubai has completed 557km of cycling tracks, with 100km under construction and 185km in the pipeline. In 2024 alone, the city recorded 47 million cycling trips, underscoring the growing shift toward active and sustainable mobility.

These infrastructure upgrades reflect Dubai’s long-term mobility vision under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to ensure smooth traffic flow, reduced commute times, and enhanced connectivity across the emirate laying the groundwork for a future-ready, sustainable transport network.

Source: Gulf News

Kenya Airways Joins Forces with IATA to Pilot the New Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP)

Kenya Airways is proud to announce its strategic partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in piloting the new Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP)—a bold new initiative designed to drive meaningful sustainability progress across the aviation industry. 

Alongside serving as the host airline for the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in Nairobi, Kenya Airways has worked to enhance its commitment to sustainability by actively contributing to the development and testing of the ISP. Over the past week, Kenya Airways has worked closely with IATA to provide critical insights, operational context, and feedback to help ensure that the ISP is practical, impactful, and tailored to the real-world challenges and opportunities facing airlines today. 

The ISP introduces three new programs that address the most pressing aviation sustainability priorities: 

  • Sustainable Procurement: Supporting responsible sourcing strategies that consider environmental and social impacts across the supply chain. 
  • Social Responsibility: Enhancing human rights, labour conditions, community engagement and talent development practices. 
  • Sustainability Performance Monitoring: Empowering organizations to measure, track, and improve sustainability performance through data-driven approaches. 

By piloting ISP, Kenya Airways continues to demonstrate its leadership by embedding Program Standards into its operational practices. The airline is now progressing toward full ISP Certification, underscoring its long-term commitment to sustainable aviation. 

Speaking on this notable milestone, Kenya Airways Group MD & CEO, Allan Kilavuka, stated, “By partnering with IATA to pilot the Integrated Sustainability Program ISP, we are taking deliberate steps to strengthen our operational resilience while contributing to broader industry transformation. This collaboration offers a valuable opportunity to test what works, learn, and refine our approach. We are optimistic that this will pave the way for scalable, real-world solutions that support our social, environmental and economic goals.”  

IATA’s Senior Vice President, Sustainability and Chief Economist, Marie Owens Thomsen, also noted, “Kenya Airways has demonstrated remarkable leadership in piloting the IATA Integrated Sustainability Program, setting a shining example for the aviation industry in Africa. Their dedication to integrating robust sustainability practices, encompassing both environmental and social responsibilities, is truly commendable and paves the way for a more sustainable future for African aviation. 

The Integrated Sustainability Program provides a practical, actionable framework for airlines, airports, and ground service providers to enhance their sustainability maturity. It enables organizations to identify risks, seize improvement opportunities, and benchmark progress across global best practices. 

The formal launch of the ISP is scheduled to take place at the IATA World Sustainability Symposium (WSS) in October 2025 in Hong Kong, where the full program will be unveiled to the global aviation community. 

Kenya Airways’ participation in this pilot reinforces its commitment to operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and social impact. As one of Africa’s leading airlines, Kenya Airways continues to play a vital role in driving transformation and setting a high standard for sustainability across the region and beyond. 

Gulf Air Launches Direct Flights from Bahrain to Nairobi

Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, has resumed flights to Nairobi after a 13-year pause, with the first flight landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) today.

The route operates five weekly flights, scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, Sundays, and two flights on Fridays, ensuring flexibility for the passengers.

This frequency is designed to cater to both leisure and business travellers, with the potential for competitive fares and increased travel options.

This development is part of Gulf Air’s 2025 expansion strategy, which also includes new routes to Europe. It is expected to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Kenya and Bahrain, potentially increasing tourism and trade.

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The Airbus A320neo aircraft will be used for these flights, thanks to their efficiency and modern amenities which will be appealing to a broad range of passengers.

Gulf Air Historical Context and Resumption

The airline previously served Nairobi until November 2012, which included announcements of flight suspensions and promotions for the route.

The resumption after 13 years reflects a strategic decision to re-enter the East African market, driven by growing demand for travel links between South Asia, East Africa, and the Gulf.

This matches with recent developments, such as IndiGo Airlines launching flights from India to Bahrain starting June 15, 2025, indicating a regional trend of increased connectivity.

Nairobi, as a key hub in East Africa, benefits from enhanced access to the Gulf region, which could attract more visitors to explore Kenya’s safari adventures and cultural experiences.

Business travellers are also likely to benefit, with improved connectivity potentially facilitating trade and investment opportunities.

As the service progresses, further details on schedules and fares are expected to emerge, providing more clarity for passengers planning their journeys.

“Today, we proudly receive the Gulf Air inaugural flight to JKIA, marking a new chapter in connectivity between Nairobi and Bahrain. Here’s to new journeys, more choices, and exciting opportunities for business and leisure. Karibu Nairobi, Gulf Air!” Kenya Airports Authority posted on their official X account.

If demand grows, Gulf Air might increase the frequency of flights to Nairobi, potentially moving to daily services. This would depend on passenger numbers and market response in the coming months.

Gulf Air has already promoted Nairobi as a safari destination, and further marketing efforts could target specific traveler segments, such as luxury tourists or business professionals attending regional conferences.

Source: The Kenya Times

SAF mandates are backfiring, warns IATA

IATA says it expects Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production to reach two million tonnes (2,5 billion litres) or 0,7% of airlines’ total fuel consumption in 2025. 

However, it has warned that government policies and compliance fees are currently increasing the cost of SAF, especially in Europe.

IATA DG, Willie Walsh, said while it was encouraging that SAF production was expected to double to two million tonnes this year, it would add US$4,4 billion (R78,8bn) globally to the fuel bill.

“The pace of progress in ramping up production and gaining efficiencies to reduce costs must accelerate,” said Walsh. 

The problem of mandates

Most SAF is now heading toward Europe, where the EU and UK mandates kicked in on January 1.

“Unacceptably, the cost of SAF to airlines has now doubled in Europe because of compliance fees that SAF producers or suppliers are charging. For the expected one million tonnes of SAF that will be purchased to meet the European mandates in 2025, the expected cost at current market prices is US$1,2 billion (R21,5bn),” IATA said in a press release.

IATA added that compliance fees were estimated to add an additional US$1,7 billion (R30,5bn) on top of market prices – an amount that could have reduced an additional 3.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions.

“Instead of promoting the use of SAF, Europe’s SAF mandates have made SAF five times more costly than conventional jet fuel,” IATA said.

Walsh said it highlighted the problem with the implementation of mandates before there were sufficient market conditions and before safeguards were in place against unreasonable market practices that raised the cost of decarbonisation.

“Raising the cost of the energy transition that is already estimated to be a staggering US$4,7 trillion (R84,2trn) should not be the aim or the result of decarbonization policies. Europe needs to realise that its approach is not working and find another way,” said Walsh. 

Also Read: Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

IATA has urged governments to focus on three areas: 

  • Creating more effective policies: Eliminating the disadvantage that renewable energy producers face compared with big oil is necessary to scale renewable energy production in general and SAF production in particular.
  • Developing a comprehensive approach to energy policy that includes SAF: Firstly, advancing SAF production requires an increase in renewable energy production from which SAF is derived. Secondly, it also requires policies to ensure SAF is allocated an appropriate portion of renewable energy production.
  • Ensuring the success of CORSIA as the sole market-based mechanism to address international aviation’s CO₂ emissions: IATA urges governments to make Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs) available to airlines. To date, Guyana is the only state to have made its carbon credits available for airlines to purchase and claim against its CORSIA obligations.

Source: Travel News

Trump reinstates US travel ban, bars citizens of 7 African countries

US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday banning the citizens of 12 countries, including 7 from Africa, from entering the United States, saying the move was needed to protect against “foreign terrorists” and other security threats.

The directive is part of an immigration crackdown Trump launched this year at the start of his second term, which has also included the deportation to El Salvador of hundreds of Venezuelans suspected of being gang members, as well as efforts to deny enrollment of some foreign students and deport others.

Also Read: Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

The countries affected by the latest travel ban are Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Haiti, Iran, Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Yemen.

The entry of people from seven other countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela, will be partially restricted.

“We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm,” Trump said in a video posted on X. He said the list could be revised and new countries could be added.

The proclamation is effective on June 9, 2025 at 12:01 am EDT (0401 GMT). Visas issued before that date will not be revoked, the order said.

During his first term in office, Trump announced a ban on travelers from seven Muslim-majority nations, a policy that went through several iterations before it was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.

Former President Joe Biden, a Democrat who succeeded Trump, repealed that ban on nationals from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen in 2021, calling it “a stain on our national conscience.”

Trump said the countries subject to the most severe restrictions were determined to harbor a “large-scale presence of terrorists,” fail to cooperate on visa security and have an inability to verify travelers’ identities, inadequate record-keeping of criminal histories and high rates of visa overstays in the United States.

“We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States,” Trump said.

He cited Sunday’s incident in Boulder, Colorado in which a man tossed a gasoline bomb into a crowd of pro-Israel demonstrators as an example of why the new restrictions are needed.

An Egyptian national, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, has been charged in the attack. Federal officials said Soliman had overstayed his tourist visa and had an expired work permit – although Egypt is not on the list of countries facing travel limits.

BEING IN THE US A ‘BIG RISK’

Somalia immediately pledged to work with the US to address security issues.

“Somalia values its longstanding relationship with the United States and stands ready to engage in dialogue to address the concerns raised,” Dahir Hassan Abdi, the Somali ambassador to the United States, said in a statement.

Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, a close ally of President Nicolas Maduro, responded on Wednesday evening by describing the US government as fascist and warning Venezuelans of being in the US.

“The truth is being in the United States is a big risk for anybody, not just for Venezuelans … They persecute our countrymen, our people for no reason.”

A spokesperson for the Taliban-led Afghan foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Pakistan’s foreign ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment on how it would handle the thousands of Afghans waiting in Islamabad who had been in the pipeline for US resettlement.

Calls early on Thursday to the spokesperson of Myanmar’s military government were not answered.

The travel ban threatens to upend a 31-year-old Myanmar teacher’s plan to join a US State Department exchange program, which was slated to start in September.

“It is not easy to apply nor get accepted as we needed several recommendation letters,” said the teacher, who currently lives in Thailand and asked not to be named because her visa application is still outstanding.

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“In my case, I would get to work at universities that provide digital education,” she said, adding that she had not been updated by the program after Trump’s announcement.

Trump’s presidential campaign focused on a tough border strategy and he previewed his plan in an October 2023 speech, pledging to restrict people from the Gaza Strip, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen and “anywhere else that threatens our security.”

Trump issued an executive order on January 20 requiring intensified security vetting of any foreigners seeking admission to the US to detect national security threats.

The latest travel restrictions were first reported by CBS News.

In March, Reuters reported that the Trump administration was considering travel restrictions on dozens of countries.

Source: NTV Kenya

KATA Joins TRA in Celebrating Coastal Tourism Excellence, Strengthens Uganda Collaboration

On Friday, May 30, 2025, the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) hosted a Gala Dinner and Accreditation Award Ceremony at PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort in Mombasa, honouring top tourism enterprises within Kenya’s Coastal Circuit for their outstanding service, professionalism, and compliance.

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) was represented at the prestigious event by Coast Executive Officer Joan Wande, who joined government officials and industry leaders in recognizing the efforts of accredited tourism operators.

Also Read: Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

KATA extended its heartfelt congratulations to all the award recipients and commended TRA for organizing an impactful event that reinforces the importance of quality assurance in tourism.

The association reiterated its commitment to working closely with TRA and other stakeholders to raise service standards, support sustainable tourism, and strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness as a world-class destination.

Earlier the same day in Nairobi, KATA members, including Moses Ochieng of Vista Voyage Travel, paid a courtesy call to Uganda’s High Commissioner to Kenya, H.E. Ambassador Paul Mukumbya.

The visit focused on reviewing progress since last year’s successful Kenya-Uganda Familiarization Trip and exploring further collaboration in regional tourism promotion and training. KATA continues to reaffirm its commitment to cross-border partnerships that elevate professional standards and enhance East Africa’s tourism competitiveness.

Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa

With just two weeks to go, anticipation is building for the Kenya Association of Travel Agents’ (KATA) 45th Annual Convention, set to take place from June 26 to 28, 2025, at the PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa in Mombasa. This event is one of the most awaited gatherings on Kenya’s travel and tourism calendar, and this year promises to be bigger, bolder, and more impactful than ever.

Register here

Themed “Going Further, Together,” the convention will bring together over 350 delegates from across Kenya and beyond. This marks a notable increase from last year’s attendance and reflects growing confidence in the industry’s future. Attendees will include travel agents, airline representatives, tourism suppliers, government officials, and international stakeholders united by a shared commitment to advancing Kenya’s travel sector.

KATA Chairman Dr. Joseph Kithitu and CEO Nicanor Sabula emphasized the importance of the gathering, noting that the convention serves as a dynamic platform for conversations that shape the future of the travel value chain. Sabula described the event as not only a professional milestone but a celebration of the travel industry’s resilience and potential, with the Kenyan coast as its perfect backdrop.

The event’s program will feature insightful panels, keynote addresses, and targeted networking sessions. Discussions will cover topics such as regional connectivity, sustainable tourism, the digital evolution of travel, and the policy shifts impacting the sector. An exhibition area has also been included this year, offering a stage for travel technology providers and tourism innovators to showcase solutions that are redefining the travel experience.

Adding to the excitement are two signature evening events. On June 27, delegates will gather for the KTB Magical Kenya Dinner, with a dress code inspired by the Kenyan flag. The following night, the Cultural Gala Dinner will spotlight Swahili heritage and traditions, with guests encouraged to wear Swahili Kanga attire in celebration of coastal culture.

Register here

The convention will also highlight KATA’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, which have become a powerful example of sustainable tourism in action. Earlier this year, KATA spearheaded a successful mangrove restoration exercise along Tudor Creek in Mikindani, Mombasa, where more than 1,000 mangrove seedlings were planted in partnership with local community members and key tourism stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula stressed the vital connection between tourism and the environment, noting that the health of the environment directly impacts the industry’s growth and sustainability. He reaffirmed KATA’s commitment to environmental conservation, announcing that the association aims to plant over 20,000 mangrove trees in the next two years.

During the upcoming convention, KATA will continue to raise awareness and funds for its CSR programs through raffle ticket sales. These proceeds will go directly toward expanding similar projects and ensuring that travel and tourism growth is anchored in environmental and social responsibility.

As the countdown to June 26 continues, the travel industry is abuzz with anticipation. The KATA Annual Convention is more than an event, it is a movement, a space for inspiration, action, and connection. All eyes now turn to Mombasa, where the future of travel in Kenya will once again take center stage.

For more details on KATA AGM & Convention, visit the KATA website here.