NAIROBI, Kenya- The recent removal of visa restrictions between Kenya and South Africa is already reshaping the tourism landscape, with South African businesses celebrating the move as a major boost for the industry.
This was a central theme at the recently concluded three-day Magical Kenya Travel Expo, where industry players voiced optimism about the future of travel between the two nations.
Duncan Muriuki, the head of South Africa-based travel agency Destination Africa, highlighted the immediate benefits of the relaxed travel regulations.
According to Muriuki, the change has led to a noticeable uptick in the number of tourists traveling between Kenya and South Africa.
“We set up in Cape Town ten years ago, and now we want Kenyan tour companies to know they have a reliable partner in South Africa,” he said, underscoring the investment potential that exists for Kenyan businesses interested in the region.
His sentiments reflect the growing opportunities for both countries to collaborate more closely in the tourism sector.
Representatives from Wesgro, a tourism promotion agency, shared similar enthusiasm. Zintle Mtsi, Product and Communications Coordinator for Wesgro, emphasized the promising opportunities in the Kenyan market.
“We see great potential in the Kenyan market and expect significant developments moving forward,” she noted.
Budget airline Airlink, which began its operations in Kenya in May 2023, also reported a surge in passenger volumes since the visa changes took effect.
William Omondi, Sales Manager for Airlink, revealed that the affordable travel options between Nairobi and Johannesburg have made South Africa an attractive alternative to traditionally popular destinations like Dubai.
“The uptake has been overwhelming,” Omondi said, adding that the airline plans to increase flights and introduce a flexible payment plan, known as “lipa pole pole,” to make travel even more accessible to Kenyan tourists.
The visa-free agreement stems from a November 2023 meeting between Kenyan President William Ruto and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, during which the two leaders agreed to remove visa restrictions to ease trade and enhance travel.
The decision is not only expected to stimulate tourism but also foster stronger economic cooperation and cultural exchange between the two countries.
With increasing travel options and growing collaboration between tourism operators, the removal of visa restrictions is set to revolutionize travel dynamics between Kenya and South Africa.
