Press Room

Africa Travel Show (ATS) held at Oshwal centre, 4th - 8^th March was attended by over 8500 visitors and 85 local & international exhibitors including destination management companies, tourism associations, airlines, accommodation facilities, car rentals and sector linked corporates such as banks and telecommunication companies. The event was organized by Smart MICE Ltd and partners including KTF.

KTF-SCC interacted with the trade and visitors on its role as the country's premier 24/7 tourist safety communication coordination centre and added new contacts to our database. Among visitors to the KTF stand who learned more about the KTF-SCC was British High Commissioner Christian Turner accompanied by KTF chairperson Lucy Karume, ATS directors Veeral Shah & Aditi Shah.

A spot check revealed several transactions were closed; trade visitors fostered useful networks; and visitors enjoyed an array of exciting offers & consultations with the travel professionals about travel options in the country.

KTF also enlightened visitors about the single tourist visa (STV), use of national IDS and interstate passes for Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. Launched in 2014 February in Kampala by the respective heads of state, the STV is available from the party states High Commissions and at the international airports at cost of US$100 and validity of 60 days.

Speaking during the ATS official opening ceremony, KTF Chairperson Lucy Karume noted that given the current challenges facing the sector, it is important for all stakeholders to work hand in hand to not only overturn the current downturn but restore the sector to a growth path. Amongst other measures, this calls for a strong message of Kenya's beauty and amazing tourism offering.

ATS Director, Veeral Shah noted ‘We at ATS believe that the industry can and will be revived and we are keen to promote the industry in every way we can'.

ATS is expected to be held annually. Visit http://www.smartmice.net/

We are on Twitter - @KTF_Kenya/ @KTFSafetyCentre.