Tour guides bear the brunt of COVID-19 as tourism industry grinds to a halt

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the global tourism industry, leaving many professionals, including tour guides, grappling with uncertainty and financial strain. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Giramata Pamela, a tour guide based in Kigali, shed light on the challenges facing her and her colleagues in Rwanda's tourism sector. Pamela highlighted the significant impact of the pandemic on the industry, emphasizing the struggles faced by tour guides as they navigate a landscape devoid of tourists and revenue. The tourism sector in Rwanda has ground to a halt as travel restrictions and lockdown measures have curtailed international and domestic travel. Pamela expressed the frustration felt by tour guides who are unable to operate due to the absence of tourists. She underscored the dire situation faced by tour companies, which are grappling with financial instability and an uncertain future. One of the key points raised in the interview was the lack of clarity regarding the duration of the pandemic and its lasting impact on the tourism industry. Pamela mentioned that despite initial hopes for a short-term disruption, the prolonged nature of the crisis has forced tour guides to confront the reality of an extended period of inactivity. This uncertainty has made it challenging for tour companies to develop long-term strategies for survival. Another crucial aspect discussed was the importance of financial support for tour guides and companies during this challenging period. Pamela highlighted the need for assistance from both government and industry stakeholders to ensure the survival of businesses in the tourism sector. She emphasized the necessity of financial aid to sustain operations and invest in innovative solutions to adapt to the new normal. In response to the crisis, Pamela mentioned efforts to explore alternative ways to generate revenue, including potential online offerings such as virtual city tours. While acknowledging the limitations of virtual experiences compared to in-person tours, she expressed a willingness to adapt and collaborate with partners to explore digital solutions. Pamela also highlighted the significance of sharing ideas and resources within the tour guide community to collectively navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic. The interview underscored the importance of solidarity and communication among tour guides in Rwanda, with Pamela mentioning the support and exchanges taking place within the Rwanda Safari Guides Association. This network provides a platform for tour guides to share experiences, address common issues, and explore collective solutions to overcome the obstacles posed by the current crisis. As the tourism industry grapples with the ongoing impact of the pandemic, tour guides like Pamela remain resilient in the face of adversity. Their perseverance and determination to adapt to the evolving landscape of travel reflect the indomitable spirit of Rwanda's tourism professionals. With continued support and collaboration, the tour guide community aims to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side of this unprecedented challenge.