Tour operators call for urgent digital transformation in tourism sector

The Tour Operators Society of Kenya (TOSK) has underscored the urgent need for digital transformation within the tourism industry, calling on tour companies to adopt digital platforms for enhanced operational efficiency and increased tourist numbers.

Speaking during a Tryply and B2B workshop in Nairobi, TOSK CEO Cyprian Getanda emphasized the importance of embracing digital tools to streamline bookings, financial transactions, and communication within the sector.

He noted that the shift to digital is no longer optional but essential for growth and competitiveness.

“The just tabled Tourism Report 2024 indicates our numbers are not good. I urge all to embrace tech travel as a means of digital transformation to ensure efficiency in operations in your companies. This will go a long way in ensuring good tourist numbers for Kenya and more business,” said Getanda.

The TOSK boss, whose association represents small and medium-sized tour operator companies across the country, further raised concern over the ongoing technical failure of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which has been down for several months.

According to Getanda, the malfunctioning system has led to widespread booking cancellations and loss of revenue for tour operators.

"It's unfortunate that for the last three months, the ETA system has been down. We have had, more than ever, high cancellations from our clients, leading to massive loss of revenue for our company members,” he said.

“This is not good for our country and industry. I urge the government to move with speed and expeditiously correct this mess."

He urged the government to urgently resolve the issue, warning that continued inaction could severely dent Kenya’s image as a preferred tourist destination.