10 July 2024 · Theme 3 Policy Insight
- July 10, 2024
- Posted by: SUSAN KIAMBATI KALANGI
- Category: Theme 3 Policy Insight
Travel restrictions during COVID-19 significantly impacted Kenya’s tourism industry, disproportionately affecting women-owned businesses and employees. This study investigated the gendered consequences of travel restrictions on tourism enterprises. It aimed to understand the impact on employment, income, access to credit, and propose interventions for future crises. This study highlights the urgent need for gender-responsive policies and interventions to strengthen women’s economic resilience and ensure a more inclusive recovery for Kenya’s tourism industry.
Key Findings:
- Male-owned businesses dominate the industry (70% vs. 30% female-owned).
- Women faced a 43% decline in employment during 2020, with salary cuts and job losses.
- Female-owned enterprises had lower revenue, with 67% earning less than Kes. 5 million annually.
- Women have limited access to credit (45% access bank loans, 11% access SACCO loans).
Policy Loopholes and Advocacy Issues:
- Lack of gender equity in the workplace and policies addressing economic participation barriers for women.
- Limited female representation in disaster and crisis management decision-making.
- Outdated regulations restrict digital businesses from registering without a physical address.
Recommendations for Policymakers:
- Promote gender equity in tourism workplaces and policies.
- Advocate for programs that empower women economically.
- Include women in disaster and crisis management.
- Develop guidelines for post-disaster recovery with a gender focus.
- Review regulations to accommodate digital businesses without physical locations
Read Complete Study Report: GENDERED IMPACT OF TRAVEL RESTRICTION’S GOVERNMENT POLICY RESPONSE TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN KENYA
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