By Illona Meyer
The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted a number of industries, globally—and none more so than the tourism industry. Africa’s tourism industry has been particularly hard hit by the worldwide travel restrictions and continent-wide lockdown protocols that needed to be instituted.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Crisis on Africa’s Tourism Sector
In May, air travel companies and tourism bodies appealed to international financial institutions and investors for aid on behalf of the African tourism sector. On the brink of collapse, Africa’s tourism sector is incredibly important, accounting for almost 25 million jobs and $170 billion of annual revenue across the continent (which comprises 7.1% of the continent’s GDP).
The COVID-19 crisis has meant that businesses across the tourism sector—from airlines to hotels and lodges to restaurants—have been unable to function properly (or at all) for months, and thus are, at this point, in danger of going under, with some already having failed. Like a veritable house of cards, if one branch of the hospitality and tourism industry breaks, it may trigger a collapse across the industry, costing millions of jobs and livelihoods. Not only is this particularly bad for Africa’s fledgling economies, but it also means that, when travel opens up again, travelers may find that their favorite lodge or restaurant has closed down.
Support the African Tourism Industry
It is thus in our collective interest, as citizens of the world, to support Africa’s tourism sector insofar as possible. The aforementioned group appealing for assistance, which includes the UN World Tourism Organization and the African Airlines Association, requested $10 billion in funding, amongst other measures to help save the industry. What can we, as individual consumers, to do help?
If you are an African, support local: buy local products, support local businesses, and, if your region allows it, travel locally. If you are from elsewhere in the world, you can support African businesses in various ways; including donating to help out communities dependent on tourism (that are currently struggling severely) and booking now—with some special discounted rates!—for future travel.
Our Favorite Stays
Here are a few of our favorite stays in Africa, from luxury lodges to a Namibian ‘shipwreck’.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge – Tanzania
Nestled on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is a haven of tranquility. Fully COVID-19 safety compliant, the lodge is running a special re-opening offer and an offer especially for East Africa residents.
Mdluli Safari Lodge – South Africa
Set on the border of the prestigious Kruger National Park, a stone’s throw from the Numbi Gate, the Mdluli Safari Lodge offers patrons a deluxe ‘camping’ experience, with large luxury tent-chalets that offer every comfort. The lodge also supports and upholds the 45 000-strong local Mdluli community, and they are currently raising funds to help the community, which has been severely impacted by the pandemic and lockdown restrictions. Bookings can be made here.
Shipwreck Lodge – Namibia
This unique accommodation is set on Namibia’s breathtaking Skeleton Coast. Where the spectacular Namibian desert and mighty Atlantic ocean meet, between the Hoarusib and Hoanib rivers in the Skeleton Coast National Park, you’ll find the Shipwreck Lodge’s distinctive shipwreck-shaped chalets.
The Governor’s Camps – Kenya and Rwanda
Last but certainly not least: The Governor’s Camps group, boasting various accommodation options—from massive canvas tents in the Masai Mara to a farmhouse at Loldia to stone cottages on the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes, allows patrons to experience some of the most beautiful parts of Africa. They, too, are fully COVID-19 compliant, and are running a number of special offers.
Where are you looking forward to traveling to, dear reader?
