Industries across the globe have undergone monumental changes, and the travel sector is no exception. From steam-powered trains of yesteryears to electric ones and who knows what AI will bring, the transformation is undeniable. The role of travel agents has similarly evolved, embracing technology, shifting customer preferences, and the demand for personalized experiences.
Shilen Jobanputra, Director of Travel n Style, a travel agency with a legacy spanning nearly three decades, has witnessed this evolution firsthand. “In the past, ticketing was a physical process—paper tickets for every trip. Now, e-ticketing has not only streamlined operations but also elevated customer convenience,” he shared. The shift from paper to digital was driven by technological advancements, market demands, and a growing emphasis on customer satisfaction.
“Today’s travelers are more informed and discerning. They no longer just buy tickets to get to a destination; they seek experiences, quality service, and innovation,” Jobanputra emphasized. This shift has necessitated a higher standard of excellence and innovation within the travel industry.
KeTIBA: Celebrating Excellence in the Travel Industry
Recognizing this paradigm shift, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) established the Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KeTIBA). These peer-reviewed awards aim to spotlight and celebrate excellence in Kenya’s travel industry. From travel agents to suppliers—including airlines, hotels, and technology providers—KeTIBA honors those who continue to raise the bar in service delivery and innovation.
“Through these awards, KATA aims to encourage continued innovation, dedication, and service excellence among travel agents and their suppliers,” noted KATA CEO Nicanor Sabula. The awards are not just about recognition; they are a testament to the evolving landscape of the travel industry and a call to consistently strive for better.
A Transparent and Credible Process
KeTIBA has instituted a rigorous voting process to maintain credibility and fairness. Travel agents vote for suppliers, and suppliers, in turn, vote for travel agents. To ensure the integrity of the voting process, each institution is provided with a unique access code for the voting portal. This mechanism guarantees that every vote is accounted for and that each establishment can only vote once.
In addition, KATA has partnered with Ronalds LLP, a Kenyan auditing firm, to oversee the voting process. This collaboration underscores KATA’s commitment to transparency and credibility. “We will partner with an audit firm to ensure that winners are determined solely based on legitimate votes. The awards are a true reflection of the industry’s choices,” Sabula emphasized.
The Grand Finale: A Night of Glamour and Celebration
The culmination of the KeTIBA process is a grand gala dinner scheduled for December 11th at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi. This event promises to be a glittering evening of celebration, marking the end of the year in style.
Attendees, adorned in black and gold attire, will gather to honor the outstanding achievements within the travel industry. The gala dinner will not only celebrate the winners but also serve as a platform for networking and fostering stronger industry relationships.
“This is not just an awards night; it’s a celebration of the resilience, innovation, and excellence that define Kenya’s travel industry,” said Sabula.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel Agents
As the travel industry continues to evolve, KeTIBA serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and dedication to excellence. The awards also highlight the crucial role travel agents play in shaping memorable experiences for their clients.
Jobanputra, reflecting on the journey of the industry, remarked, “It’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come. From ticketing to crafting experiences, the travel industry is not just about getting from point A to point B anymore. It’s about the journey, the memories, and the impact we leave behind.”
As the December gala approaches, it’s clear that KeTIBA is more than just an awards ceremony. It’s a celebration of the industry’s progress, a commitment to its future, and a reminder that excellence and innovation are at the heart of Kenya’s travel industry.
The Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards exemplify the resilience and ingenuity of the travel sector. As the world continues to change, KATA’s initiative stands as a beacon, encouraging stakeholders to embrace innovation, prioritize customer satisfaction, and strive for excellence.
