Travel News Digest, May 24: AU Passport Call Intensifies

In this week’s Discover Africa Travel News Digest, calls for easier travel across the African continent has increased, petrol is also expected to be a bit cheaper next month, while South Africa continues to shine when it comes to its floral biodiversity – clinching yet another gold Chelsea Flower Show Award. These are the travel stories you might have missed.

Travel News

Push for African Union Passport Intensifies

Prominent figures like Raila Odinga and Aliko Dangote are advocating for the African Union Passport. Odinga criticized the need for Africans to fly to Europe to connect within the continent and deal with multiple currencies and visas. At the Africa CEO Forum, Dangote highlighted his need for 35 visas, stressing the urgency for a unified passport.

Kenya’s Flood Disaster Response

Kenya’s President William Ruto has restructure the National Steering Committee on Drought Response into the National Steering Committee on Disaster Response, following devastating floods in May. This committee will now handle natural disasters like floods, fires, and earthquakes, with the renamed National Disaster Response Appeal Fund supporting relief efforts managed by Kenya’s Red Cross. Read this Guide one relief and repair measures and what guests travelling for a Great Migration Safari in the high season can expect.

Cape Town’s FYN Ranked Among World’s 100 Best

FYN, led by Chef Peter Tempelhoff, secured 60th place on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants extended list, up from last year’s 75th. Renowned for its blend of Japanese and South African cuisine, this marks FYN’s fourth time on the prestigious list.

South Africa Wins Historic 38th Gold at RHS Chelsea Flower Show

South Africa achieved its 38th gold medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show with an exhibit inspired by the Cape Mountains. The display also won “Best Exhibit in the Pavilion” and “Best New Design,” a first for the nation.

Aviation News

Qatar Airways Not Buying SAA, Confirms Interim CEO

Prof. John Lamola confirmed that Qatar Airways will not be acquiring South African Airways (SAA), ending speculation. He addressed the aftermath of the failed private equity deal with the Takatso Consortium and the qualities SAA seeks in a strategic partner.

Zambia Airways Introduces Flights to Dar es Salaam and Nairobi

Starting June 27, Zambia Airways will connect Kenya with flights between Lusaka and Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi. The new routes will be available three times a week, with flights operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Conservation News

Ambitious Rhino Rewilding Project Begins in Africa

The project to rewild 2,000 southern white rhinos across Africa has begun, with 40 rhinos being relocated to Munywana Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This effort is part of African Parks’ ‘Rhino Rewild’ initiative.

Funding Shortages Threaten Africa’s Biodiversity Conservation

Africa faces a critical funding gap in biodiversity conservation, requiring $950 billion annually while only $121 billion is currently allocated. Efforts to secure necessary funds through collaborations are ongoing to protect the continent’s ecosystems.

RMB to Launch Wildlife Bonds for Lion and Wild Dog Conservation

Rand Merchant Bank plans to issue five-year wildlife bonds worth $233 million to support conservation efforts for African wild dogs and lions, following the World Bank’s rhino conservation bond model.

ATTA Launches Inaugural ATTA for Action Awards

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA) introduced the ATTA for Action Awards to honour organizations making significant contributions to impactful tourism practices.