Know About Our Conference Background

The inaugural AESATA Travel Agents Conference was held on 22-23 May 2023 in Zanzibar and attracted more than 100 participants from 8 countries in the Eastern and Southern Africa region. Held under the theme Rebuilding Sustainable and Resilient Travel Agencies in Africa., the conference focused on challenges faced by travel agents and explored strategies for growth and adaptation in a changing business environment. At the end of the conference, participants adopted the Zanzibar Declaration on the future of travel in the region. The resolutions include

• Rebuild sustainable travel agencies by embracing adaptive technologies, fostering innovation, and investing in capacity building to ensure sustainability and competitiveness.
• Advocate for government support of the Industry to create policies and interventions that facilitate business development, promote sustainable travel and tourism practices, and enhance the overall enabling environment for travel agencies.
• Foster collaboration and partnerships among travel agents, industry stakeholders, and associations to promote knowledge sharing, joint marketing initiatives, and mutually beneficial cooperation that drives growth and innovation.
• Promote responsible and sustainable tourism by advocating for sustainable tourism policies, and supporting initiatives that protect the environment, promote local communities, and enhance visitor experiences.
• Champion for intra-Africa travel by embracing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in order to unlock the full potential of the continent’s travel and tourism industry, create sustainable job opportunities, and foster a deeper sense of unity and cooperation among African nations.
• Strengthen AESATA and regional collaboration by committing to recognize AESATA as a regional platform for collaboration, information sharing, and advocacy.

Exhibition Packages

In addition to sponsorship opportunities, we offer exhibition packages that provide a platform for organizations to showcase their products and services to a targeted audience of travel agencies.

Conference Sub Topics

• Cross-Border Collaborations: Explore strategic partnerships with neighboring countries to enhance travel experiences. Develop joint marketing campaigns and initiatives that showcase the diverse attractions of Eastern and Southern Africa collectively, encouraging tourists to explore beyond individual borders.
• Digital Connectivity and Accessibility: Embrace technology to improve connectivity and accessibility for travelers. Develop a unified digital platform that provides comprehensive information on destinations, visa requirements, and seamless booking options, facilitating a smoother travel experience across the region
• Cultural Exchange Programs: Foster cultural exchange initiatives to promote understanding and appreciation among travelers. Collaborate with local communities to create authentic cultural experiences, encouraging tourists to engage with the rich heritage of Eastern and Southern Africa.
• Sustainable Tourism Practices: Implement sustainable tourism practices that prioritize environmental conservation and community well-being. Develop guidelines and certifications to promote eco-friendly travel options, ensuring the longevity and preservation of natural wonders.
• Infrastructure Development: Advocate for infrastructure improvements that support tourism growth. Work with government bodies to invest in transportation, accommodation, and communication to enhance the overall tourism experience and attract a broader range of visitors.
• Regional Events and Festivals: Organize and Promote regional events and festivals that celebrate the diversity of Eastern and Southern Africa. Highlighting unique cultural celebrations and activities can draw international attention, creating a vibrant and enticing atmosphere for travelers.