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
