Aesata

09/06/2026

09/06/2026

As the curtains close on the 2026 KATA AGM & Convention in Mombasa, AESATA extends its sincere appreciation to all delegates from our member countries who travelled, participated, shared insights, and contributed to the important conversations shaping the future of travel and tourism in our region.

Your presence from across Eastern and Southern Africa reaffirmed a powerful truth: our industry is strongest when we come together. Through meaningful dialogue, knowledge sharing, partnership building, and collective advocacy, we continue to strengthen the foundations of a more connected, resilient, and prosperous African travel ecosystem.

This year's theme, "The Journey: Build to Last," resonated deeply with AESATA's mission. As we work towards breaking barriers, expanding market access, strengthening travel agency businesses, and advancing policy reforms across our member states, gatherings such as KATA provide invaluable opportunities to align our vision and accelerate regional progress.

We are particularly grateful for the contributions made by our delegates from Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Your voices, experiences, and commitment enriched the discussions and reinforced the importance of cross-border collaboration in unlocking Africa's tourism potential.

Together, we are not simply participating in the future of African travel; we are helping to shape it.

Thank you to the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) for hosting yet another impactful convention and for providing a platform where ideas become partnerships, partnerships become action, and action creates lasting impact.

04/06/2026

Understanding the EU's Response to Fuel Supply Challenges and Passenger Protection Measures

Global events continue to demonstrate how interconnected the aviation industry has become. As fuel supply disruptions linked to the Middle East crisis impact parts of the transport sector, the European Commission has introduced guidance aimed at safeguarding connectivity, supporting airlines, and protecting passenger rights.

For travel professionals, this development offers important insights into how regulators are balancing operational resilience with consumer protection during periods of uncertainty.

As advocates for a stronger and more resilient travel ecosystem, AESATA remains committed to sharing timely industry intelligence that empowers travel professionals across Africa.

Read the full article and stay informed;
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/eu-issues-aviation-guidance-amid-middle-east-fuel-supply-disruptions-0kouf

28/05/2026

Meet Candy Shinondo Kasonkomona, the Regional VP Southern, Eastern & Central West Africa Agency Distribution at Hahnair; who will serve as Mistress of ceremonies at the 2026 AESATA Travel Agents' Conference.

Candy is a respected leader with over two decades of experience across travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation in Africa. Her career has been defined by strategic leadership, market growth, partnership development, and a deep understanding of the African travel ecosystem.

Candy is known for connecting markets, creating commercial opportunities, and driving industry collaboration across the continent. Her impact has earned her recognition among the Top 30 Most Influential Women in African Tourism and Hospitality 2026 by The PYNE Awards Africa and the MIPAD Global Top 100 Travel, Tourism & Hospitality Leaders – Class of 2026.

Passionate about mentorship and women empowerment, Candy is committed to inspiring the next generation of African leaders to rise, lead boldly, and create lasting impact.

International Air Transport Association (IATA) Hahnair Radisson Blu Travel Agents Association of Zambia

27/05/2026

Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak from AESATA Africa 🌙✨

On this blessed occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, the Association of Eastern and Southern Africa Travel Agents family extends warm wishes to our valued Muslim community across Africa and beyond.

May this sacred celebration bring peace, prosperity, renewed faith, and countless blessings to you and your loved ones. As we reflect on the values of sacrifice, compassion, unity, and gratitude, may we continue building stronger connections across our continent through understanding and togetherness.

Wishing you joyous celebrations, good health, and safe travels always.

Eid Mubarak!

26/05/2026

AESATA is proud to announce Travelport as a Gold Sponsor for the upcoming AESATA Conference. A longstanding and valued partner of AESATA, Travelport has consistently played a key role in advancing travel technology, empowering travel agents, and strengthening the future of the African travel ecosystem through innovation, connectivity, and global distribution solutions.

As one of the world’s leading travel technology companies, Travelport continues to transform how travel businesses access content, serve customers, and compete in an increasingly digital and connected industry.

Their continued partnership with AESATA reflects a shared commitment to driving industry growth, enhancing opportunities for African travel professionals, and shaping the future of intra-Africa and global travel.

Travelport Travel Agents Association of Zambia Zambia Tourism 🇿🇲 Radisson Blu

25/05/2026

Today, we celebrate the spirit, strength, diversity, and unity of Africa.

At AESATA, we believe in an Africa that is connected through travel, trade, tourism, and collaboration; an Africa that continues to rise as a global force of culture, innovation, and opportunity.

As we commemorate Africa Day, we reaffirm our commitment to driving intra-Africa travel and building bridges that bring our continent closer together.
𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝐃𝐚𝐲!

25/05/2026

Africa’s future in tourism lies in collaboration, not competition.

The modern traveler wants connected experiences, seamless journeys, and the opportunity to explore more of our continent in one trip. It’s time for Africa to market itself as one destination.

The continent’s greatest opportunity is creating seamless multi-destination experiences that allow travelers to explore Africa as one interconnected journey. From shared tourism circuits to stronger regional partnerships, collaboration will define the next era of African travel.

These are the conversations shaping the future at the 2026 AESATA Travel Agents’ Conference in Livingstone, Zambia.
Read more: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-africa-must-start-marketing-itself-one-destination-aesata-4hxcf

Radisson Blu Travel Agents Association of Zambia African Union Zambia Tourism 🇿🇲 International Air Transport Association (IATA) Kenya Airways Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents Rwanda Association of Travel Agencies Tasota Ethiopian Travel Agents Kenya Association of Travel Agents RwandAir

22/05/2026

We are proud to welcome Visa as a 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐦 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐫 of the 2026 AESATA Travel Agents’ Conference in Livingstone.

As a global leader in digital payments, Visa connects millions of consumers, businesses, and financial institutions across more than 200 countries and territories, enabling seamless, secure, and efficient movement of money across borders.

Visa’s work sits at the heart of global travel and commerce; driving financial inclusion, powering innovation in digital payments, and enhancing the ease of doing business across the travel ecosystem.

Their partnership with AESATA underscores a shared commitment to strengthening Africa’s travel trade landscape and enabling more connected, accessible, and future-ready travel experiences.

Have you secured your spot?
https://convergly.app/register/2026-aesata-travel-agents-conference-1769782323457

Visa Travel Agents Association of Zambia Radisson Blu International Air Transport Association (IATA) Zambia Tourism 🇿🇲 Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents Kenya Association of Travel Agents Ethiopian Travel Agents Rwanda Association of Travel Agencies Tasota