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Zanzibar is set for a significant expansion in air connectivity, with available airline seats forecast to increase by 33% over the next six months, according to new tourism intelligence released by the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA®) at the international Buyer Forum, Essence of Africa being held this week in Zanzibar between 20-22 October.

Hosted by ATTA® Founder and Honorary President Nigel Vere Nicoll, Chief Executive Virginia Messina and Chief Commercial Officer Chris Mears, alongside ATTA® Honorary Fellow Dr Mohanjeet Brar, ATTA®roundtable brought together senior representatives from the Kenyan tourism industry, which led to the association calling for greater recognition of the value of travel and tourism to the Kenyan economy, alongside increased investment in tourism promotion, infrastructure and conservation to safeguard Kenya's global competitiveness.

New travel intelligence reveals rising international demand, expanding air connectivity and growing opportunities across key source markets for Kenya, ATTA's Expert Partner Data Appeal has revealed.

Chris Mears appointed Chief Commercial Officer as association implements renewed strategy

ATTA® has appointed Taqi Moledina as its new Chair, beginning a two-year term from 1 October 2026. Bringing nearly 25 years of African tourism experience, Moledina will work alongside CEO Virginia Messina and the ATTA® Board as the association enters its next chapter.

ATTA® publishes new member guidance as EU Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive takes effect

The African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA®) has unveiled a new strategic direction, vision and tiered membership structure designed to help tourism businesses capitalise on Africa’s growing international appeal while supporting sustainable, long-term development across the continent. The announcement comes as Africa outpaces every other global region for international tourism growth. According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, international arrivals to Africa increased by 4% during the first half of 2026 - ten times the global average of 0.4%.

ATTA® and The Long Run launch a new strategic partnership and kick off with a practical resource: Communicating Impact at Experience Africa 2026 to strengthen impact storytelling across the tourism sector.

Over 600 delegates gather in London for the UK’s largest African tourism trade event as new data points to growing international travel intent across the continent

Year on Year air capacity to Africa is growing by 6% for May and June travel despite capacity dip caused by global disruptio February pre-war

The African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA®) appoints Virginia Messina as Group Chief Executive Officer, marking an important step in the organisation’s evolution and global influence.

The Africa In the Air White Paper Launches at ITB Berlin

ATTA® – The African Travel & Tourism Association – has published its 2026 Travel Trends report, revealing that cultural immersion, heritage storytelling, conservation-led experiences and slower, more meaningful journeys are shaping demand for Africa among global leisure travellers.

Berlin, Germany – ATTA® – The African Travel & Tourism Association, exhibiting in Hall 20, Stand 105 – at the heart of the Africa section - will host 46 African organisations representing a wide diversity of African travel and tourism from leading DMCs, tour operators and safari lodges to boutique hotels, aviation specialists and tourism service providers from across the continent.