The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has revealed plans to lower airfare in six East African Community countries. During a meeting chaired by East African Community Secretary General Peter Mathuki, the aviation body proposed re-evaluating regulations and policies guiding the aviation sector in East African Community member states. The plan involves harmonizing rules to allow the seamless movement of passengers and goods from one country to another. The aviation bosses also disclosed plans to increase air connectivity by setting up standard structures and infrastructure in the regional states.
The countries under the East African Community set to benefit from the plan include Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania. Airline tickets in the East African Communities range from Ksh20,000 to Ksh60,000, depending on the airline and the class of service offered inside the plane. The move is expected to increase air traffic in member states, spur trade, and promote tourism in the region.
Kenya’s bid to revive tourism led to Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza disclosing plans to use influencers to market the country. The country plans to recruit ambassadors for tourism, including young ambassadors such as Miss Tourism and Miss World, to target the 65% youth population. The country is also reaching out to influencers such as Eliud Kipchoge and Lupita Nyong’o to promote Kenya as a tourist destination.
With the planned reduction of airfare in East Africa, traveling within the region will become more accessible and affordable for locals and tourists alike. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the economic growth of the region and showcasing East Africa’s vast tourism potential.
