Kenya-Rwanda enters into a Deal to Boost Tourism within the Region

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) in conjunction with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Rwanda Chamber of Tourism (RCOT) have signed a deal to magnify tourism in East Africa. The three have collaborated to aid in the development of leisure travel and business to promote competitiveness.

The partnership will help look into initiatives and solutions to uplift regional travel, reach new audiences and modify their business. It will also examine the challenges faced by EAC region travel industry.

The collaboration will inspire KATA and Rwanda’s marketing and promotional programs to hold joint marketing activities that will draw foreigners to Kenya’s and Rwanda’s attractions. The parties agreed to join hands by engaging in activities of common interest in order to exchange best practices, prowess and knowledge. The parties also concurred to share countries calendar of events so that stakeholders attend and be engaged in African continental Free Trade Area spirit.

The partnership was signed in the attendance of Ms. Agnes Mucuha, the Chief Executive Officer for KATA, Fred Odek, the EATP Chairman Amb Richard Masozera, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Kenya (representing RDB and RCOT), and Robert Okumu, RwandAir Country Manager Kenya.

“RwandAir (WB) will be the title Sponsor for the Air tickets during the familiarization trips to Rwanda facilitating the much-needed product, knowledge and experience,” said Robert Okumu, RwandAir’s Country Manager for Kenya in support for the partnership.

Okumu added that RwandAir has a special discount airfare for Kenyans to visit Rwanda. Kenya is one of the most popular destinations in Africa and bilateral cooperation may enhance business in the region. Mr. Okumu remarks that 1,000 people travel from Nairobi to Kigali for both leisure and business.

“This partnership will shape the course of regional tourism. If there is ever a period for the region to come together to grow its tourism and the associated economic gains for its industry players, now is without a doubt the right time,” said Fred Odek.

“The signing of this agreement between RDB, RCOT, KATA and EATP represents a visible result of the thriving Kenya- Rwanda relationship. The partnership is also in line with our efforts to transform and build new travel and tourism industry capabilities. As we start a new path forward for the travel sector, it is crucial to focus on growing local travel for us to help the industry rebound,” said Amb Richard Masozera.

Article by Lilian Waeni