This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, travel agents are being advised to adapt to technological advancements to remain relevant and competitive.
At the 2019 KATA Convention, industry players gathered to discuss the impact of technology and changing trends on the trade. The annual event brought together local and international speakers who emphasized the need for travel agents to embrace change and adopt digital solutions to boost the industry.
According to KATA Chairman Mohammed Wanyoike, digitization is one of the biggest disruptors in the travel industry. He urged travel agents to offer personalized services to their clients by leveraging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR).
Wanyoike noted that many clients now prefer to book their travel and accommodation themselves, leading to a shift in the way travel agents operate. He stated, 'To date, almost 90% of travellers worldwide admit that the standard travelling process is not enough any longer.'
Keynote speaker Yossi Fatael highlighted the challenges faced by travel agents, including safety and security issues, lack of infrastructure, government and regulatory restraints, and climate change. He emphasized the need for travel agents to adopt digital transformation, improve customer experience, and manage data effectively.
The convention was attended by over 200 delegates, including Salome Wambua, a Mombasa travel agent, and Nakuru County Governor Lee Kinyanjui, who expressed his support for the travel industry and congratulated KATA on its 40th anniversary.
The KATA Convention is an annual forum that brings together travel professionals to discuss industry-related matters and share knowledge and experiences. This year's theme was 'Travel in Transition: Re-imagining the future of Kenya's travel industry.'
