How will Rwanda’s hospitality sector recover from the COVID-19 lockdown?

The hospitality sector in Rwanda is facing an uncertain future as the country grapples with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the recent announcement of a two-week extension to the national lockdown, the local hospitality industry is left wondering how it will cope with halted activity and recover from the loss of bookings for months to come. Nsengiyumva Barakabuye, Chairman of the Rwanda Hospitality Association, spoke to CNBC Africa about the challenges the sector is facing and the efforts being made to mitigate the impact of the crisis. Barakabuye highlighted the significant blow that the hospitality industry has already endured, noting that Rwanda was hit hard even before other sectors felt the full impact of the pandemic. The extension of the lockdown presents a daunting challenge, with uncertainties surrounding the timeline for recovery. He emphasized that the industry's reliance on international arrivals exacerbates the situation, as the global nature of the pandemic means that recovery may take longer than anticipated. As efforts to navigate the crisis continue, the Rwanda Hospitality Association has been engaging with stakeholders, including the Rwanda Development Board, the Rwanda Convention Bureau, and government ministries, to explore potential avenues of support. Barakabuye shared that discussions have led to decisions such as loan restructuring and tax payment postponements, aimed at easing the financial strain on businesses within the sector. However, the process of implementing these measures is ongoing, with some members still awaiting feedback from banks regarding loan restructuring. Barakabuye acknowledged the challenges faced by businesses operating with minimal or zero revenue during the lockdown, highlighting the need for solidarity within the industry and efforts to support those in need. In response to the question of managing perishable goods and food supplies during this period of restricted operations, Barakabuye emphasized the importance of community solidarity. He explained that efforts have been made to share perishable goods with neighbors and distribute items nearing expiry to those in need, in order to prevent wastage and support vulnerable community members. With the future of the hospitality sector in Rwanda hanging in the balance, the industry remains resilient in the face of unprecedented challenges. As businesses continue to adapt to the evolving situation, collaboration with stakeholders and innovative solutions will be key to navigating the path to recovery.