COVID-19 lock-down: How Kenya tourism is faring following reopening of international travel

Kenya reopened for international tourism on August 1st after months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To understand how the sector is faring, CNBC Africa spoke to Mohammed Hersi, Chairman of Kenya Tourism Federation. Hersi highlighted the challenges faced by the industry, including the slow recovery of international travel, the importance of domestic tourism in bridging the gap, and the impact of COVID-19 measures on tourism operations. Since the reopening of international travel, Kenya has seen a gradual increase in the number of visitors. However, Hersi mentioned that the country is still far from a full recovery. One of the main obstacles affecting international tourism is the requirement for travelers to present a COVID-19 free certificate and adhere to specific timeframes before boarding flights. Despite these challenges, there is hope for a slow but steady recovery, with flights resuming from various countries. Domestic tourism has played a significant role in sustaining the industry during these uncertain times. Hersi emphasized that Kenya's domestic tourism market is well-established and has provided a reliable source of income, contributing to nearly 40% of the overall business. The Chairman praised the Tembea Kenya campaign, which encouraged local travel and showcased Kenya's diverse attractions. Additionally, regional tourism has also been instrumental in supporting the sector. Hersi called on residents from neighboring countries like Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda to explore Kenya's coastal regions and national parks. While domestic and regional tourism have been beneficial, they are unlikely to fully replace the revenue generated from international tourists. To attract more visitors, Kenya has implemented various measures, including reducing national park entry fees by 50%. Hersi highlighted the importance of making travel accessible and affordable, especially given the financial constraints and uncertainties caused by the pandemic. By offering discounted rates, Kenya aims to incentivize both domestic and international travelers to explore the country's natural wonders. Despite these efforts, COVID-19 restrictions continue to pose challenges for the tourism sector. Hersi acknowledged the need for precautionary measures but also emphasized the importance of striking a balance between safety and economic recovery. He noted that discussions are ongoing to extend the validity period of COVID-19 certificates to facilitate smoother travel across African countries. In conclusion, while Kenya's tourism industry is slowly rebounding following the reopening of international travel, it continues to face hurdles posed by the ongoing pandemic. The collaboration between government authorities, industry stakeholders, and travelers will be crucial in navigating these challenges and ensuring a sustainable recovery for the sector.