Wakanow will become Africa’s biggest online travel company

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By Onome Amawhe

Wakanow, one of Africa's most powerful one-stop travel companies operates a website where travellers take control of their bookings and reservations. The site provides reservation for more than 700 airlines, 512,000 hotels, and over 40 car rental companies across a network of 130 cities. Wakanow was created in 2008 as the pioneer of Nigeria's web-based travel company.Growing steadily during its first two years in business, the traction gained made it possible for the innovative travel company to be awarded an exclusive licence during the 2010 World Cup as an event reseller. During the past year, it launched an African travel booking platform – Destinations Africa (DA), a one stop travel booking platform for all categories of African travels. To drive the initiative, Wakanow partnered with Ebony Life TV; an entertainment and lifestyle network to produce a glamorous travel show- of same name. The TV show was designed to highlight the continent's top destinations for African travellers.Since inception, the site has recorded over 700,000 travel bookings, and counting. Obinna Ekezie, Wakanow Founder and Chief Executive, is one of the rare insiders who built a continent-wide behemoth with a passion for travel and a hyper-sensitivity to the customer experience. With responsibility for the overall profitability and performance of the organization, his focus is to build for the long term an enduring travel brand, invest heavily in technology to make transactions more efficient and acquire a stable customer base and market share. He shares his thoughts in this interview.

SINCE Wakanow came on board in 2008, how have you significantly changed the way travel reservations are made in Nigeria/Africa?

Prior to opening our doors for business in 2008, the industry was made up of booking agents who shrouded the booking and ticketing process in complete mystery. There was no such thing as a travelling customer having the opportunity to independently compare airline or hotel pricing, so what he/she was told is what they had to believe.

Back then, travel agents had a stronghold on air travel and it appeared that bookings were made deliberately difficult to push the customer towards paying more. Back in the US while I was a professional basketball player, I had a personal experience with making bookings from Nigeria and I asked myself, 'why can't we have the same experience here in Nigeria as we get in America and other developed markets?

Obinna Ekezie, Founder and Group Managing Director, Wakanow

Transparency and best priced deals

And as I did not see any reason why that could not be, we decided to set up Wakanow to change the face of travel and give people convenience, transparency and best priced deals. We have leveraged on technology and the entire digital ecosystem to change the way people book travel and reservation in Nigeria – offering customers a broad selection of highly affordable travel deals. We will continue to do more of this to put the power in the hands of the customers. Today, we are taking that same technology further into Africa and have recently launched an African travel booking platform called Destinations Africa (DA). Our vision is to own African packaged travel by aggregating the best of African holiday destinations under one roof. The continent has a lot to offer and we want to be at the forefront spearheading the effort to showcase its potential.

What was the driver for creating Wakanow– what gap did it fill?

Innovation is always at the back of our minds in everything we do. Wakanow was a response to an industry in dire need of improved customer service, better deals and more options and value for travelers. We wanted to get rid of the inefficiencies in the Nigerian travel management space and create a sustainable culture of transparency in the industry.

We also wanted to take the industry far beyond the brick-and-mortar model by creating travel solutions that are localized, but that still meet the globally accepted standards of service delivery and professionalism. And because of our keen appreciation of the peculiar cultural paradigms and preferences of the Nigerian traveler, we were able to quickly integrate innovative models that match these consumption patterns. We felt it was time we got Nigerians, and of course, Africans to make the most of seamless, easy and affordable travel booking at the click of a button.   

What strategy did you adopt to drastically improve the online ticketing process involved in travelling to and from the continent?

I would say that technology was the backbone of our strategy. That is, the use of technology to offer superior service in the areas of ease, convenience and transparency. We went with the best of the best in building the technology we wanted. We were very clear in our minds that online ticketing was the future for the industry in Nigeria. We also recognized that there were Nigerians who wanted the direct personal interaction for their bookings.

This informed why we went with both an online and offline model and today, even though Wakanow is primarily online, we are also in over 30 travel centres around Nigeria and counting, including all the jor airports. Very shortly after opening our doors in Nigeria, we opened in Ghana, the UK and Dubai. We not only book travel for our customers, we also assist with facilitating their trips with ground transportation activities, telephony and travel wallets.

As opposed to the traditional approach of travel agencies, why did you opt for the online travel model?

One of the major factors that fueled our optimism for the model we adopted was the rise of digital technology. We looked at the statistics, and were convinced that technology would shape the future of travel. We were very clear about that, and despite the cynicism of many Nigerians to anything online at the time, we could see that there was a rising number of people who were voraciously consuming content online and would latch on as early adopters to our innovative offering.  We were not wrong and today, posterity has proven us right in that regard.

Two years after you came on board, you were awarded the exclusive licence during the 2010 World cup as one of the events authorized ticket resellers. How did you close that deal within the short time of your launch? 

Our precedence came through for us in obtaining that license. It was early days for us when we applied for and got it, but the fact that we could thrive in such an uncertain terrain at the beginning gave the World Cup organizers the confidence that we could handle it. It proved to be one of the most challenging things we ever did but we pulled it off and in the process got very good visibility from being a significant Nigerian participant in the event. We are very proud of that achievement. 

I'm of the opinion that Wakanow's development has been surprisingly rapid. How was this accomplished? Can you tell us a little about what the early stages was like?

At inception, the business was not a smooth ride; it was like a plane battling with a cluster of whirlwinds at takeoff point. We had it tough from various players in the industry while trying to get a foothold in the market. At the time, even though there were some early adopters, most people were and are still scared of making payment online because of the nation's unflattering history with internet fraud.

Most exciting destinations

But the conviction of our vision far outweighed any hitches we faced. With tenacity, we continued and the books started looking attractive. We have surpassed our initial projections in terms of growth; going global just within a few years of our existence is a feat that delights us as much as it humbles us.

What difference does Wakanow want to make?

For us, beside our vision to become Africa's biggest online travel company, we also want to make Africa one of the most exciting destinations on the planet. This is a major factor that influenced our DestinationsAfrica platform. We want the world to be able to experience the new Africa of hope and beauty; a new Africa of pride and endless possibilities. We are part of that fundamental shift in how tomorrow's Africa will be perceived, not the continent of hunger, diseases and unrest. We want to champion that conversation about a new Africa.

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Chuka (Webby) Aniemeka

Chuka is an experienced certified web developer with an extensive background in computer science and 18+ years in web design &development. His previous experience ranges from redesigning existing website to solving complex technical problems with object-oriented programming. Very experienced with Microsoft SQL Server, PHP and advanced JavaScript. He loves to travel and watch movies.

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Source: Wakanow will become Africa's biggest online travel company

The best spa destinations in the world

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 11:08 AM Borgo Egnazia. Credit: CN Traveller UK    

Condé Nast Traveller UK has announced the latest winners of its Traveller Spa Awards, pooling together the eight most reinvigorating relaxation destinations in the world.

Its "most life-changing experience" has gone to the Borgo Egnazia in Italy, a refuge for "women with shattered souls".

The 5-star hotel in Puglia offers an array of treatments at its Vair Spa, ranging from yoga to neuropathy.

The hotel itself is a thing of beauty, merging the breath-taking Puglian landscape with some gorgeous architecture.

A CN Traveller reviewer has nothing but praise for the destination, saying that the spa's director has "amassed a team who seem to have been culled from some academy of the spiritual elite".

The remaining seven spots are filled by resorts from all over the globe.

Most effective medi-spa: Villa Stephanie, Brenner Park Hotel, Germany

Most transformative programme: Raas Devigarh, India

Most outstanding city spa: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Thailand

Best new hideaway: Yaan Wellness, Tulum, Mexico

Best fitness regime: Rancho La Puerta, Baja California, Mexico

Best bespoke retreats: Amanpuri, Thailand

Most consistent high performer: Anassa, Cyprus

Reviews of each retreat can be found here.

Source: The best spa destinations in the world

Losing players to Kolpak reason for T20 league in South Africa: Haroon Lorgat

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Kyle Abbott and Rillee Roussouw migrated to England to play county cricket

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Lorgat said that the Kolpak was a major reason behind the new league

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Reserve quota for coloured players are forcing South African players to move to England

Cricket South Africa Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat has conceded that one of the major considerations before announcing the launch of an ambitious Twenty20 Global Destination League was losing key South African players to the Kolpak agreement.

Recently speedster Kyle Abbott and batsman Rillee Rossouw migrated to England to play county cricket for a stable financial future. (Also read: Cricket South Africa to launch new T20 league)

"Yes I must say that when we conceptualised a franchise based T20 league, the Kolpak was a major consideration. Obviously, you want to give opportunity to the South African players to grow and also make a career out of cricket. Earlier, the only way to have a good career was to play for South African national team but this league with eight teams will have 88 slots for Proteas players," Lorgat said during an interaction.

The CSA Chief Executive was happy that ICC chairman Shashank Manohar was receptive and they got a favourable response from the global body.

"Mr Manohar was very supportive of the idea and obviously he knew the considerations kept in mind while announcing a franchise based league. The members gave a favourable response when the concept was presented to them. Everyone understands that the game needs to grow and we have to find new avenues to do that," said Lorgat, a former ICC Chief Executive.

He said the franchise based league will have teams from top cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town and he would be looking at potential Indian investors.

"South Africa being a great country to tour and the time zone being convenient for the Indian sub-continent, we would love to have Indian investors on board. The global tenders are out and considering the ties that both India and South Africa share, it would be a great experience," said Lorgat.

Talk about BCCI's obstinate stand till date that Indian players are not allowed to ply their trade in foreign leagues, Lorgat would love to have an interaction with current dispensation (COA) of BCCI.

"International cricket is sacrosanct and there would be no compromise. But it would be incredible for the league if we get a player like Virat Kohli on board.

"But I know how tough it is for top Indian players to take time out of their hectic schedule. But we would like to get the second rung of Indian players. I have not had a chance to discuss with BCCI's current dispensation and that's why I would not like to presume anything," he said.

For the record Kolpak agreement allows players from countries that share trade relations, apart from European Union nations with UK, play county cricket in England without the counties losing a foreign quota in first XI.

The players after four years are then eligible to play for England. South Africa has agreement with UK which allows it's players to exercise Kolpak agreement rights.

With South African national teams having reserved a quota for coloured players, more and more South African players are choosing county over country in order to maintain their livelihood.

Unless one plays for South African national cricket team, the chances of earning a living out of cricket is difficult for average second rung players. The new T20 league gives them that opportunity.

Source: Losing players to Kolpak reason for T20 league in South Africa: Haroon Lorgat

South Africa cricket’s answer to IPL and BBL: Global Destination T20 League

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced the launch of a new eight-team franchise based league that is tentatively scheduled to start in the last quarter of 2017. Named #T20 Global League, it is expected to be South Africa's answer to the popular Indian Premier League and Big Bash League of Australia. Tenders for applying for franchises are already out.

South Africa already have a six-team Ram Slam T20 meet that started in 2003-04 but its popularity is on the wane in recent years. Top players like AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis are big draws in the IPL but not in the Ram Slam either because of clashing dates or due to the limited number of teams in the tournament.

The new eight-team league is expected to bring South Africa back in the race with India and Australia. CSA president Chris Nenzani and CEO Haroon Lorgat's presentation to the ICC board in Dubai this week was reportedly met with favourable response.

According to the rules of the new league, potential owners must submit 'an Expression of Interest,' and 'a formal bid.' The CSA will then evaluate the bids before announcing the team owners. The entire process will continue till March 3. Reportedly, a number of Indian conglomerates could be interested in picking stakes in the franchises.

"Our vision is to drive the creation of a new #T20 destination league in South Africa that would energise the sport of cricket in South Africa by creating a global platform for the best-in-class to perform and showcase their talent to a global audience," Nenzani was quoted as saying in a CSA media release.

"We have received a very favourable response to our plans from the ICC and Member Boards and look to their support in our endeavour. We now look forward to another exciting chapter in the evolution of South African cricket and to the whole game benefitting from our new #T20 Global League,"

"Early feedback from the marketplace suggests that there is tremendous interest in our Global Destination League from around the globe," said Lorgat.

"This new #T20 Global Destination League offers great opportunities for investment in South Africa and South African cricket, and we are excited by the number of local and international superstars that will feature in the league. We are also confident that the window we have chosen will make it possible for franchises to attract top class players to South Africa," Lorgat said.

Source: South Africa cricket's answer to IPL and BBL: Global Destination T20 League

AP Explains: Why is Australia-US refugee deal contentious

SYDNEY –  Amid the drama over a refugee resettlement deal between Australia and the United States, the White House has issued a series of conflicting statements on whether the agreement is still on, how many refugees it involves, and who, exactly, are the refugees. A look at what's at stake:

AUSTRALIA DOESN'T WANT BOAT REFUGEES

Under the Obama administration, the U.S. agreed to resettle a group of refugees who are being held at detention camps on the impoverished Pacific island nations of Nauru and Papua New Guinea. The Australian government pays both countries to house the refugees, because it refuses to settle any of them in Australia. That has resulted in many of them languishing inside the detention facilities for years. The conditions at the camps are grim and reports of detainees suffering abuse and attempting suicide are frequent.

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UNCLEAR HOW MANY ARE GENUINE REFUGEES

President Donald Trump has repeatedly described the refugees as "illegal immigrants" and said in a tweet that there are "thousands" of them. The refugees are, in fact, among around 1,250 asylum seekers who were transferred to the island detention centers after being intercepted while trying to reach Australia by boat. Another 370 who came to Australia for medical treatment and then refused to return to the islands are also eligible for resettlement to the United States. Australia will not say how many of the asylum seekers have been deemed genuine refugees, and thus it's unclear exactly how many refugees the U.S. agreed to ultimately accept. Most of the asylum seekers come from the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Australia's previous center-left government called them "irregular maritime arrivals," because a refugee can legally seek asylum in a country such as Australia that is a signatory to the United Nations Refugee Convention — which calls on nations to take in people fleeing war. The current conservative government changed the terminology to "illegal maritime arrivals," presumably because people smuggling is illegal and most pay people smugglers to ferry them to Australia.

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THEIR PREFERED DESTINATION IS AUSTRALIA

Asylum seekers who attempt to reach Australia by boat generally travel to Indonesia, where people smugglers jam them into overcrowded, barely seaworthy vessels that then head south to Australia. In 2013, Australia imposed tough policies toward asylum seekers in a bid to discourage the dangerous and often deadly journeys. Under the strict rules, any asylum seeker who tries to reach Australia by boat can never be settled in Australia, and is instead sent to the detention camps on Nauru and Papua New Guinea where their refugee claims are assessed. Prior to the U.S. deal, the only option given to those deemed genuine refugees was for them to resettle in Papua New Guinea or Cambodia. Few refugees have accepted those offers, opting instead to remain in detention in the hopes that Australia will eventually take them in.

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CONTRADICTING STATEMENTS

Over the weekend, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Trump had a tense telephone call in which they discussed the agreement. On Monday, Turnbull told Australians that Trump had vowed during the call to honor the deal. But a report from The Washington Post that subsequently emerged suggested the agreement might be in doubt. The newspaper reported that during the call, Trump ranted to Turnbull that it was "the worst deal ever." Shortly after that report was published, Trump took to Twitter to slam the agreement as "dumb" and said he would review it. Meanwhile, the State Department offered reassurance that the agreement would, in fact, stand — "out of respect for close ties to our Australian ally and friend." White House spokesman Sean Spicer also confirmed that Trump had agreed to honor the deal, though he said all the refugees would be subjected to "extreme vetting." Later, Trump told reporters that he has to "respect" actions of the previous administration, yet quickly added: " But you can also say, 'Why are we doing this?'" Spicer then gave another press conference in which he said that Trump was "unbelievably disappointed" in the agreement and had "agreed to continue to review that deal."

Source: AP Explains: Why is Australia-US refugee deal contentious

Another captive white lion poached

It is not the first time that the mutilated remains of a lion have been found in enclosures on South African lion breeding farms. In fact there have been an increasing number of incidents of this nature on farms where captive-bred lions are kept for various uses.

©South Africa Police Services

In the latest incident, on 31 January 2017,  the mutilated remains of a white lioness were discovered at Ingogo safari lodge in Limpopo Province. Her body had been decapitated and all four paws removed. A 31 year-old man was reportedly found in possession of all four severed paws and the head, and then arrested.

"The 31-year-old man and three suspected accomplices allegedly fed three lions in an enclosure on the Ingogo Safari Lodge poisoned chicken meat on Tuesday," said Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, a police spokesperson.

The two male lions in the same enclosure were found alive but severely incapacitated by the effects of the poison.

At least six lions were poached in the Limpopo area in January, and similar instances were recently reported in Tzaneen, Mara and Hoedspruit. Many of these operations are linked to lion cub petting, walking with lions, canned hunting and the lion bone trade.

The growing captive lion industry in South Africa seems to be a thriving source of product for the illegal channels which flourish alongside these highly controversial businesses. And in the background is the final destination for most lion and other wildlife products – the unscrupulous and insatiable Asian markets.

Source: Another captive white lion poached

Best practice in destination development – join us at the Hospitable Cities Summit

The aim of the Hospitable Cities Summit is to create an interactive forum to debate and discuss how cities can change and the role that Hospitality can play in that change.

More and more people are travelling globally and the challenges facing how cities address these challenges, evolve and welcome their visitors is becoming increasingly important.

Hospitality has a central role to play in the economies and success of cities – so how can we work together to offer the best levels of service against this difficult backdrop.

There is real change in the air and there are many cities and countries working on new methods and ways of improving both tourism but also the way they interact with visitors.

The summit is for real change in Hospitality and to explore what we need to do for the future.

The Event

The Hospitable Cities Summit will be hosted at Nomura Bank in the City of London and broadcast live to over 20 hotel schools around the world.

The event is limited to 250 senior industry stakeholders from the four key sectors of destination, operators, suppliers and educators.

The event format will be highly interactive through engaging international keynote speakers, facilitated leadership workshops, networking sessions and leadership panel sessions to create genuine areas of discussion and material, actionable insights.

Speakers have been selected specifically based on their leadership influence on destination management around the world including Africa, London, Europe, Dubai, Canada and Australia.

Source: Best practice in destination development – join us at the Hospitable Cities Summit