Kenya to host OTOAI convention

The 5th Annual Convention of OTOAI will be organised at Sarova Stanley, Nairobi, Kenya from 24-27 November 2023. About 200 delegates are expected to attend the flagship event. OTOAI officials said that the destination was chosen with an objective to build a strong bond with Kenya and tap the unexplored market.

Suhani Sood

The Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), in a press conference organized recently at Hyatt Regency in New Delhi, announced that its 5th Annual Convention will be organized at Sarova Stanley, Nairobi, Kenya from 24-27 November 2023.

The venue has been chosen with an objective to build a strong relationship with Kenya and tap the Kenyan market. OTOAI members were excited, as it was first time ever that a association convention is taking place in such an unexplored yet beautiful destination, Kenya. The association is expecting 200 delegates to attend the conference. Riaz Munshi, President, OTOAI, addressing the press conference, said, “This is a much-awaited convention, as it is taking place after a hiatus of three years and in a destination like Kenya, which is still undiscovered by many in India. Sarova Hotels & Resorts is OTOAI’s official partner for the convention.”

Welcoming delegates, he said, “Due to its uniqueness and wait of three years, I am quite confident that this is going to be a successful convention and I invite everyone to come and be a part of it.”Highlighting a deal with airline partners Kenya Airways & Air India, Munshi said, “OTOAI has curated special packages for OTOAI members in Mumbai (`79, 999 + GST) and Delhi (` 82,999 + GST). Shravan Bhalla, Vice President & Convention Chairman, OTOAI, said that this year the convention’sfocus will be on showcasing wildlife of Kenya, along with hospitality and tourism offerings Mita Vohra, Director, Sarova Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement over signing of the contract between OTOAI and Sarova Hotels & Resorts. “One of the most exciting things was when we were approached by OTOAI, which initially happened at the Annual General Meeting. After some calls and discussions, there was no looking back,” she said. India market Highlighting the value of Indian market, Vohra said, “For last few years, Indian numbers to Kenya have been rising exponentially. This year, it has nearly doubled from last year. To cater to Indians, all our properties have Indian chefs, which is exceptional.” Important requirements

The registration for the convention opened on 27 September. Around 200 delegates are expected to take part in the convention. Sharing the requirements for entering Kenya, Bhalla said, “15 days prior, Indians travelling to Kenya must get a mandatory Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate & obtain Polio Drops Vaccination.” Giving information about visa procedures, he said, “Kenya gives electronic visa to Indians; one just needs to pay $50.”

OTOAI officials said that keeping in view the growing economy of India, no country can ignore it at this point of time, as it has a strong market base, and people are actually interested in travelling. “Kenya is ready to welcome Indians with open arms,” an OTOAI official said.