Kenya Airways (KQ) and Qatar Airways have announced a new codeshare agreement that will open up 11 additional international destinations for Kenyan travellers.

The expanded deal coincides with Qatar Airways’ launch of a third daily flight between Doha and Nairobi, boosting connectivity between Kenya and the Gulf region.

Under the new arrangement, Qatar Airways passengers can now connect to eight new African destinations via Nairobi, including Juba (South Sudan), Lilongwe (Malawi), Livingstone (Zambia), and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe).

In return, Kenya Airways customers will gain access to 11 global destinations through Doha, such as Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Singapore, Male (Maldives), and Tokyo (Japan).

KQ Chief Commercial and Customer Officer Julius Thairu said the partnership enhances connectivity across continents while offering customers greater flexibility and comfort.

“This partnership will enhance connectivity across Africa and Asia, expand our network, and open up a world of new destinations for our customers,” Thairu said.

“Together with Qatar Airways, we are committed to improving travel experiences and supporting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.”

Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer Thierry Antinori welcomed the collaboration, saying Africa remains a key market in the airline’s global growth strategy.

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“Our partnership with Kenya Airways reinforces our commitment to connecting Africa with the rest of the world through our Doha hub,” Antinori said. “By combining our networks, we are creating new opportunities for travellers and strengthening economic ties between our regions.”

The two airlines also plan to expand cooperation beyond passenger services, exploring collaboration in cargo, ground handling, lounge access, fleet maintenance, sustainability, and loyalty programs.