The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) joined other industry players at the Tourism Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting convened by the County Government of Mombasa in collaboration with the Mombasa Tourism Council (MTC) on Thursday, 21st August 2025, at the KSLH Mombasa Beach Hotel.
KATA was well represented by the KATA Coast Executive Officer and the Coast Region Chairman, Patrick Kamanga, who attended alongside a number of KATA members from the region. Their presence highlighted the association’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of travel agents are heard in shaping the future of Mombasa’s tourism industry.
The meeting provided a platform to introduce stakeholders to the mandate of the Mombasa Tourism Council, present and discuss the MTC Workplan for the financial year 2025/2026, and invite feedback on proposed programs. Participants also examined the challenges and opportunities facing the tourism ecosystem, with the aim of building collaborative strategies for growth and sustainability.
Speaking during the session, Patrick Kamanga emphasized the importance of collective dialogue in strengthening Mombasa’s tourism competitiveness. “As travel agents, we are on the frontline of connecting visitors to this destination. It is therefore vital that we engage in these discussions to ensure that the policies and programs being developed reflect the real needs of both the industry and the traveler,” he noted.
Joan Wande – KATA Coast Executive Officer echoed these sentiments, highlighting the association’s ongoing role in bridging the gap between policymakers and tourism operators. “KATA’s involvement in these forums is not just about representation; it is about advocacy, problem-solving, and building a resilient tourism ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders,” she remarked.
The County Government of Mombasa, through the Directorate of Trade, Tourism and Culture, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering collaboration. Officials underlined that stakeholder input would directly shape the council’s priorities and actions for the coming year, ensuring that strategies remain responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.
For KATA, participation in the meeting was another step in its broader mission of supporting the growth of Kenya’s travel and tourism sector. By contributing to policy dialogue and industry planning, the association continues to position its members at the center of efforts to enhance Mombasa’s appeal as a destination of choice.
