Across the globe, industries are experiencing transformative shifts, and the travel sector is no exception. From the steam-powered trains of the past to today’s electric locomotives, the way we travel has evolved tremendously. But the most exciting developments lie in the future, as artificial intelligence (AI) promises to further revolutionize how we explore the world. Travel agencies, too, have had to adapt, embracing technology, responding to shifting customer preferences, and offering more personalized experiences.
Shilen Jobanputra, Director of Travel n Style, a travel agency with nearly 30 years of history, has witnessed these changes firsthand. He recalls a time when ticketing was entirely physical, with paper tickets for every flight and train ride. “The shift from paper to e-ticketing has streamlined operations and made the entire travel experience far more convenient for customers,” Jobanputra explains. This transition was fueled by both technological advancements and the growing demand for a more efficient and customer-friendly service.
Jobanputra notes, “Today’s travelers are more informed, they seek more than just a trip to a destination—they want to immerse themselves in experiences, quality service, and cutting-edge innovation.” This shift in consumer expectations has set higher standards within the industry, challenging both travel agents and service providers to innovate and meet these new demands.
KeTIBA: Recognizing Excellence in Travel
In response to this rapidly changing landscape, the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) launched the Kenya Travel Industry Business Awards (KeTIBA). These peer-reviewed awards recognize and celebrate outstanding achievements within Kenya’s travel sector, spotlighting companies that have excelled in areas like customer service, innovation, and overall excellence. The awards span various categories, from travel agents to airlines, hotels, and technology providers, highlighting the best the industry has to offer.
Nicanor Sabula, CEO of KATA, emphasized the importance of the awards: “KeTIBA aims to celebrate those who are pushing boundaries in service delivery and technological advancements. It’s not just about recognizing success; it’s about encouraging continued progress and inspiring others to innovate and improve.”
A Fair and Transparent Process
To ensure fairness and credibility, KeTIBA implements a rigorous voting process. Travel agents vote for their suppliers, and suppliers vote for the travel agents. Each participant is given a unique access code, allowing them to vote once and ensuring that the process remains transparent and secure. Additionally, KATA has partnered with Ronalds LLP, a Kenyan auditing firm, to oversee the voting process, guaranteeing that the results reflect the legitimate choices of industry stakeholders.
Sabula reassures, “With the help of our audit partner, we ensure that the awards are a true reflection of the industry’s collective decisions, based solely on legitimate votes.”
A Night to Remember: KeTIBA’s Grand Gala
The climax of the KeTIBA awards process will be a grand gala dinner on December 11th at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi. The evening promises to be a celebration of the resilience and ingenuity that define Kenya’s travel industry. Attendees, dressed in black and gold attire, will gather to celebrate the winners and strengthen industry relationships.
“This is more than just an awards night,” Sabula shares. “It’s a celebration of the dedication and excellence that our travel agents and suppliers bring to the table. It’s about acknowledging the hard work that goes into making travel a memorable experience.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel Agents
As the industry continues to evolve, KeTIBA serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of innovation in maintaining high standards. Travel agents play a critical role in shaping unforgettable experiences for their clients, and as technology continues to advance, their role will only grow in importance.
Reflecting on the industry’s journey, Jobanputra adds, “It’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come. The travel industry isn’t just about getting from one place to another anymore—it’s about the memories we create along the way, the experiences we offer, and the impact we leave behind.”
As the December gala draws closer, one thing is certain: KeTIBA is more than just an awards ceremony. It’s a celebration of the travel industry’s evolution, a reminder of its future potential, and an affirmation that excellence and innovation will continue to be the driving forces behind Kenya’s thriving travel sector.
