Kenya Eases African Travel: eTA Exemption for Most Countries
Kenya has taken a major step to simplify intra-African travel by exempting visitors from 15 African nations from its Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) requirement, with plans to expand this list further. The exemptions aim to foster regional integration and align with broader African Union goals for seamless travel across the continent. Most African travelers will now enjoy a two-month stay, while East African Community nationals will maintain their six-month allowance under existing free movement agreements.
To address past criticisms of the eTA system, Kenya has introduced expedited approvals, a three-day processing cap, and advanced security protocols to streamline passenger handling. While the eTA system remains for non-exempted visitors, the move marks significant progress in improving accessibility to Kenya, supporting tourism, and bridging economic ties within Africa. These efforts reflect the country’s commitment to strengthening both regional collaboration and its position in the African tourism landscape.
Cape Town's New Canopy by Hilton: Chic Hotel Opens in Longkloof
Cape Town’s Longkloof neighbourhood welcomes the Canopy by Hilton Longkloof, marking Hilton’s first Canopy property in South Africa. Opened on January 24th, the hotel features 154 uniquely designed rooms adorned with local artwork and themes inspired by fynbos, the ocean, and the vibrant Bo-Kaap area, blending modern comfort with South Africa’s cultural essence.
Guests can enjoy an in-house restaurant offering creative takes on South African cuisine, a fitness centre, and a location perfectly positioned near iconic attractions like Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront. Led by General Manager Mercia Horn, a Cape Town native with over 20 years of hospitality expertise, the hotel promises an authentic and thoughtfully curated stay tailored to its surroundings.
Rivers State & Opobo Kingdom: New Tourism Investment Opportunities in Africa
Rivers State is unlocking tourism investment opportunities with a focus on strategic partnerships and cultural heritage. Highlighting the state’s rich tourism potential, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Israel Ngbuelo, emphasized Governor Siminalaye Fubara’s commitment to leveraging these resources for economic growth. A key focal point is Opobo Kingdom, renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant cultural traditions, including the Opobo International Festival, known for boat races and regattas.
During discussions with King Dandison Jaja of Opobo Kingdom, plans were outlined for developing tourism assets such as Opobo town and the Oyorokoto Fishing Settlement in Andoni. King Jaja supported these initiatives, acknowledging their potential to attract investment and revitalize local economies. Mr. Enyaada Cookey-Gam, Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, stressed tourism’s role in tackling unemployment. This collaboration marks a promising step toward sustainable economic development in Rivers State.
