State strengthens air travel sector, eyes Ksh21.6T tourism boost to Africa’s economy
By Victor Mukabi, June 26, 2025Africa’s travel and tourism sector could inject up to $168 billion (Ksh21.6 trillion) into the continent’s economy and create more than 18 million new jobs, provided that policies around air infrastructure, visa access, and tourism marketing are enhanced.
Kenya is already taking steps to strengthen its air travel infrastructure with tech-driven reforms aimed at improving efficiency and the overall traveller experience.
A key shift is the planned exemption of all African citizens from Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements, part of a broader effort to ease intra-African mobility. ETA is a system used to screen travel eligibility before entry.
Fast-track clearance
To address long-standing congestion at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), the government has committed to doubling immigration booths and personnel. E-Gates will also be introduced to fast-track clearance, supported by monitoring technology to boost staff accountability.
Infrastructure at JKIA is undergoing a facelift, with upgrades to baggage handling, stormwater drainage, road access, walkways, air conditioning, and signage.
Meet-and-greet services will be strictly regulated to enhance order and security. The Ministry of Tourism is also betting on technology to revamp the sector.
Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said e-citizen services would be made more efficient to reduce approval delays, while international tourists will benefit from improved PDQ systems, Wi-Fi connectivity.
“The next level is that we have introduced a digital wallet system allowing one to make purchase products prior,” she said.
A centralised digital portal is set to launch by month-end. It will consolidate tourist destinations and services across the country, offering curated travel options, including distance and travel time based on a user’s location.
The portal will leverage GIS mapping and will be customised to international standards.
Visa demand has surged globally, according to a joint report by the World Travel & Tourism Council and VFS Global. But the increased demand has also attracted fraudsters posing as visa agents.
VFS Global’s Operations General Manager, Stephen Kubasu, urged applicants to be wary of fake booking promises and highlighted the organisation’s anti-fraud safeguards, including OTP verification and access control based on valid appointments.
“We strongly advise all applicants to be careful of touts and fraudulent parties who falsely promise early appointment bookings in exchange for payment,” he said.