More tourists visiting Kenya but spending less.

In Summary

•The strong arrivals has been pegged on the visa openness which came with the introduction of the Electronic Tourist Authorization (eTA) at the beginning of the year.

•This, TRI acting chief executive David Gitonga yesterday said, has eased the visa application process, making it seamless for tourists.

Tourists at a beach hotel in Watamu /
Image: ALPHONCE GAR

Recovery in global tourism industry coupled with a strong marketing campaign saw Kenya record a 21.2 per cent jump in international arrivals in the year to June.

Foreign visitors in the half-year period totaled 1,027, 630, data by the Tourism Research Institute (TRI) shows, compared to the 847, 719 in the same period in 2023.

Even so, tourism sector earnings during the period dropped 7.1 per cent to Sh142.5 billion, compared to Sh153.4 billion recorded last year.

This reflects reduced spending by tourists in the wake of inflation which wiped out gains that came with the higher visitor numbers.

The strong arrivals has however been pegged on the visa openness following the introduction of the Electronic Tourist Authorization (eTA) at the beginning of the year.

This, TRI acting chief executive David Gitonga said has eased the visa application process, making it seamless.

“In addition, improvements in air connectivity through introduction of new routes and more frequencies by major airlines has led to growth,” Gitonga said.

June registered the highest number of visitors (192,343) or 19 per cent of the total arrivals . January and February also registered notable figures each at 18 per cent of the total visitors, or 181,527 and 183,645, respectively.

These numbers have surpassed pre-covid levels by 11 per cent where arrivals were 925,927 in January to June 2019.

The US continued to dominate as Kenya’s top international tourists source with 134,901 Americans visiting Kenya.

It was followed by Uganda (103,680), Tanzania (91,889), the UK (70,593), with India closing the top five list with 50,510 visitors to Kenya.

Holiday or leisure was the main purpose of visiting accounting for 44 per cent (454,639) of the total arrivals.

Those visiting friends and relatives totaled 246,437 (24%), while those that were in the country for business and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) totaled 247,684, which was 24 of the total arrivals.

A total of 48,121 were on transit, education (11,761), religion (7,355), medical (5,344) seeking employment (3,932), while 2,357 visited Kenya for sports.

The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was the main entry point, registering 693,046 arrivals, followed by Moi International Airport (Mombasa) with 87,041 arrivals.

Other entry points with significant numbers were Busia (81,067), Namanga (60,46) and Malaba (22,851).

The half-year performance puts the country on course of hitting its 2024 target of surpassing the two-million mark.

“We are projecting to hit 2.45million this year. The second half of the year yields more due to peak season of wildebeest migration July to September and high season of November, December,” Gitonga told the Star.

Earnings are expected to hit Sh359.1 billion this year and then Sh396.1 billion next year.

Last year, total arrivals were 2,086,600, the Economic Survey 2024 indicates, with earnings of Sh353 billion.

Source:   The Star  

Kenya’s WRC Safari Rally fuels intra-African Tourism push.

The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is seizing the marketing opportunity presented by the upcoming WRC Safari Rally to promote destination Kenya and stimulate travel, especially in the East African region.

KTB Ag. Chief Executive Officer, John Chirchir says that the world-famous motorsport tournament has immense potential for tourism growth and is among the board’s key strategies to boost arrivals from the wider East African region.

This, he noted, goes by the increasing number of tourist arrivals from the neighboring East African countries which now rank among Kenya’s top source markets.

“The upcoming WRC Safari Rally is a prime opportunity to showcase Kenya and the East African region’s unique tourism offerings to motorsports enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike. A source market like Uganda now firmly ranks second to the USA in tourist arrivals to Kenya, having contributed 125,556 visitors in 2023 compared to 87,448 in 2022 – a 43.6% growth,” Chirchir said on March 26.

Chirchir added: “Tanzania and Rwanda also feature prominently among our top ten source markets. We want to further stimulate interest and travel in an important regional bloc for us.”

As part of this integrated experiential marketing campaign, KTB is hosting several motorsports fans from Uganda ahead of the WRC Safari Rally set to roar into action this week.

The 150 motorsports fans drawn from various rally groups among Uganda’s motorsports community would later be treated to a breakfast meet and greet in Naivasha ahead of their curated itineraries that will offer them a glimpse of the country’s diverse tourism offerings.

Chirchir noted that this initiative is aimed at capturing the interests of a well-defined niche market with high potential.

“There is no better way to experience the excitement of the WRC Safari Rally than being part of it. Uganda’s fervor for motorsports extends beyond its borders, influencing the broader African motorsports culture. We want to give the Uganda motorsports fans a first-hand feel of what Kenya has to offer beyond the adrenaline-filled rally tracks,” he said.

Besides marketing the East Africa region as a single tourism circuit, the KTB boss was optimistic about such initiatives in further complementing and boosting intra-Africa travel.

The Safari Rally is slated for March 28-31, KTB will be looking to boost destination visibility and showcase Kenya’s unique tourism offerings to motorsports enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike.

The board in partnership with the Ministry of Sports and the WRC recently hosted top drivers for an excursion trip to the Maasai Mara National Reserve as part of this integrated campaign to immerse key influencers in the quintessential Kenyan safari experience.

Source: Independent.

African travel industry leaders to unite at WTM Africa 2024 this April.

The African travel industry is on the brink of a significant resurgence, with leaders and stakeholders gearing up for an event that promises to catalyze growth, foster innovation, and showcase the continent’s vast potential as a travel destination. The World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2024, scheduled to take place from 10 to 12 April 2024 in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa, is set to be a pivotal gathering for professionals across the travel industry. This comprehensive article delves into what makes WTM Africa 2024 not just an event but a milestone in shaping the future of travel on the continent.

The Essence of WTM Africa 2024

WTM Africa has established itself as a leading travel and tourism event, bringing together global brands, African entities, and travel professionals from all over the world to engage in meaningful discussions, forge partnerships, and explore the latest trends shaping the industry. The 2024 edition of WTM Africa aims to build on this legacy, offering a platform for showcasing sustainable tourism practices, innovative technologies, and the diverse cultural and natural heritage that Africa has to offer.

Uniting Industry Leaders

One of the core strengths of WTM Africa 2024 lies in its ability to unite leaders from various facets of the travel industry. From tour operators and travel agents to government officials and tech startups, the event promises a convergence of ideas and expertise that is rare to find elsewhere. This gathering of minds is crucial for addressing some of the pressing challenges facing the industry, including sustainable tourism development, digital transformation, and enhancing connectivity within the continent and beyond.

Spotlight on Sustainable Tourism

Sustainability is set to be a major theme at WTM Africa 2024, reflecting a growing consciousness within the industry about the environmental, social, and economic impacts of travel and tourism. The event will feature discussions on how to balance tourism growth with conservation efforts, support for local communities, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Exhibitors and speakers will share success stories and best practices, offering insights into how sustainable tourism can be a powerful tool for development and conservation in Africa.

Harnessing Digital Innovation

Digital innovation is transforming the travel industry at an unprecedented pace, and WTM Africa 2024 will be a showcase for the latest technological advancements. From artificial intelligence and virtual reality to mobile platforms and blockchain technology, the event will explore how these tools can enhance the travel experience, improve operational efficiency, and create new opportunities for growth. Startups and tech companies will have the opportunity to demonstrate their solutions, highlighting the role of technology in driving the future of travel in Africa.

Cultural and Natural Heritage

Africa’s rich cultural diversity and natural beauty are among its greatest tourism assets. WTM Africa 2024 will celebrate this heritage, offering a platform for destinations to showcase their unique attractions, from world-class wildlife safaris and breathtaking landscapes to vibrant cities and ancient historical sites. The event will also highlight cultural tourism initiatives that provide immersive experiences while supporting local traditions and livelihoods, reinforcing the idea that tourism can be a force for positive cultural exchange.

Boosting Intra-African Connectivity

Improving connectivity within Africa is essential for unlocking the continent’s tourism potential. WTM Africa 2024 will address the challenges and opportunities related to transportation infrastructure, air travel, and visa policies. Discussions will focus on collaborative efforts to enhance regional travel, making it easier for tourists to explore multiple destinations and for businesses to tap into new markets. The event will serve as a catalyst for initiatives aimed at boosting intra-African travel, contributing to economic growth and regional integration.

Empowering Local Communities

The empowerment of local communities through tourism will be a critical topic at WTM Africa 2024. The event will showcase community-based tourism projects that are making a difference by providing income opportunities, preserving local cultures, and promoting social inclusion. By putting a spotlight on these initiatives, WTM Africa aims to inspire further investment in community-led tourism, demonstrating how the industry can contribute to social and economic development across the continent.

Networking and Partnership Opportunities

WTM Africa 2024 is not just about discussions and exhibitions; it is also a prime opportunity for networking and forming new partnerships. The event’s carefully curated schedule includes matchmaking sessions, networking events, and business meetings designed to connect attendees with potential partners, investors, and clients. These interactions are vital for fostering collaboration across the industry, sparking innovation, and driving collective efforts towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for African travel.

WTM Africa 2024 is poised to be a landmark event for the African travel industry, offering a unique blend of inspiration, innovation, and collaboration. By uniting industry leaders, showcasing sustainable tourism practices, exploring digital advancements, and celebrating Africa’s cultural and natural heritage, the event aims to chart a course for the future of travel on the continent. As attendees gather in Cape Town, they will not only witness the potential of the African travel industry but also play a part in shaping its evolution. The journey towards a more connected, sustainable, and vibrant travel ecosystem in Africa continues, and WTM Africa 2024 is a crucial step forward on this path.

Source: Travel and Tour World.

Celebrating Collaboration: KATA’s Perspective on the Visit of Jordanian Minister of Tourism

Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) warmly received a special invitation to a dinner in honor of the official visit by Jordanian Minister of Tourism, Makram Mustafa Queisi. Among the esteemed attendees were Dr. Joseph Kithitu, Chairperson of KATA, and CEO Nicanor Sabula, alongside John Chirchir, CEO of Kenya Tourism Board (KTB).

The visit of Jordanian Minister of Tourism presents an exciting opportunity for both Kenya and Jordan. The emphasis on “mutual growth” and “enriching experiences” suggests a collaborative approach that benefits both tourism industries. This could involve joint marketing campaigns, exchange programs for tourism professionals, and the development of multi-destination itineraries combining the unique offerings of both nations.

At its core, tourism serves as a bridge between people and nations. This partnership has the potential to promote global understanding and appreciation for different cultures and environments. By fostering connections between individuals, it creates lasting memories and friendships beyond borders. KATA is committed to ensuring mutual collaboration between Kenya and Jordan, facilitating seamless travel policies and enhancing the partnership between the two nations.

In celebrating this collaboration, KATA looks forward to the shared prosperity and cultural exchange that will enrich the travel experiences of visitors from both Kenya and Jordan.