At the start of 2020, Africa’s tourism industry was predicted to grow.The United World Tourism Organization, or UNWTO, estimated a 3 to 5% increase in international arrivals to the continent as a result of demand for air travel and easier visa processes.As coronavirus hit, airports were shut down, tourists stopped arriving and the industry was forced to pause.
Many countries on the continent also imposed lockdowns, shutting down hotels, tour companies, event centers and public transportation.
The tourism industry — consisting of entertainment, accommodation, food and beverage and operating tours — employs more than 1 million people each in Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa, according to the United Nations.
It also accounts for more than 20% of employment in Seychelles, Cape Verde, Sao Tome, and Principe and Mauritius.
CNN
