How to revive Rwandan tourism after COVID-19

The global tourism sector has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with nearly 80% of jobs in the industry facing uncertainty. Across the world, countries have imposed travel restrictions, leading to grounded airplanes, closed hotels, and restrictions on movement. This has posed significant risks to the travel and tourism industry, with an estimated 25 million aviation jobs and 100 million travel and tourism jobs at risk. In addition, service industries have seen a 22% decline in international travel in just the first quarter of the year, resulting in an estimated $450 billion total loss globally. The COVID-19 pandemic has threatened the tourism sector's growth, which contributed 8.8% to the global GDP, equivalent to 250 million jobs and $1.1 trillion in investments a decade ago. In Africa, reliance on foreign tourists has stalled the travel and tourism industry, highlighting the need for diversification and focus on domestic and regional markets. The pandemic has affected various sectors within tourism, including retail, aviation, hotels, cruises, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) industry. Among these, the MICE industry is crucial for economies like Rwanda and Africa, as it caters to business and leisure travelers with conferences and meetings. In order to revive the tourism sector post-COVID-19, safety is paramount for travelers. Research shows that consumers prioritize safety, health, hygiene, and value when deciding on travel destinations. Travelers expect stringent health checks, hygiene standards, and value for their money in the post-pandemic world. Countries like Rwanda are implementing creative solutions to rebuild confidence in business travelers. This includes reimagining event setups, incorporating thermal sanitation stations, and exploring hybrid virtual solutions for future events. These measures aim to adapt to the 'new normal' and restore the tourism sector's growth amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic.