1.
1 OVERVIEW
This chapter provides the basics foundation of the research study and focus.
It cover the background of the study, the statement of the problem, the
purpose of the study, research objectives, research questions and
hypothesis, significance of the study and operational definition of key terms.
1.2 Background of the study
The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the tourism sector worldwide
by closing borders, reducing the transportation of tourists, and decreasing
tourist demand. Tourism is the hardest-hit sector. Indeed, in 2020, it was
predicted that international tourism would fall by 80% (OECD, 2020).
Countries whose tourism sectors contribute a high share to gross domestic
product (GDP) are facing considerable economic impact as the tourism sector
is an important driver of economic development (Faber & Cecile, 2019;
Sinclair, 1998), particularly in transitioning and developing countries (Chou,
2013; Khan, Bibi, Lorenzo, Lyu, & Babar, 2020; Liu & Wall, 2006; Pelizzo &
Kinyondo, 2015). For example, in Africa, the tourism sector contributes
around 9% to real GDP and supports approximately 7% of all jobs. Thus,
during the last few decades, the tourism sector has received attention from
both tourism researchers and development economists alike (Brown & Hall,
2008; De Kadt, 1979; Ghimire, 2001; Mings, 1981; Rogerson, 2008).
In developing countries, where the tourism sector is of high importance to
the economy, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative impact.
First, the pandemic has directly affected the whole economy and society
through health consequences and measures against it (e.g., increased
hospitalisation and many lethal cases, economic lockdown, closure of
schools). Second, the pandemic has impacted the tourism sector in
particular, which is very important for economic growth and employment.
Third, since tourism is linked to many other economic sectors (Faber &
Cecile, 2019; Sinclair, 1998), the negative impacts of COVID-19 on the
tourism sector are channelled to linked sectors. These impacts are therefore
of high interest to researchers and politicians. The differentiated information
on these impacts is relevant for the design of measures and policy decisions
in counteracting the negative economic impacts of COVID-19. Particularly in
developing countries, which are vulnerable to any economic shock, such
information could help support economic growth and reduce the increase in
poverty.
Tanzania is a developing country where tourism is a key sector for economic
growth (Antonakakis, Dragouni, Eeckels, & Filis, 2016; Curry, 1990; Wade,
Mwasaga, & Eagles, 2001). In 2019, the tourism sector was the second-
largest component of GDP, with a contribution of 17%. In terms of
employment, the sector is the third-largest source of employment, with
850,000 workers (World Bank, 2021a). Moreover, the sector has strong
linkages with other domestic sectors such as transport, accommodation,
beverage and food, and the retail trade (Mayer & Vogt, 2016). Tourism
creates direct and indirect jobs for low and unskilled workers, making it an
important driver of economic growth and the fight against poverty (Pelizzo &
Kinyondo, 2015). Tourism stimulates domestic and foreign investments in
new infrastructure and management of hotels, aviation, training, and travel
services, tour operators’ businesses, marketing, and promotion of tourism
activities (Mwakalobo, Kaswamila, Kira, Chawala, & Tea, 2016). Furthermore,
foreign currency earnings from tourism allow for the importation of capital
goods that support domestic production (Brida, Gomez, & Segarra, 2020).
1.3 Statement of the problem
1.3.1 Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism: Understanding how the COVID-19
pandemic has affected tourist behavior, preferences, and the tourism
industry in Mwanza.
1.3.2 Changing Tourist Preferences: Investigating the shifts in tourist
preferences post-pandemic, including changes in destination choices,
activities, and accommodation preferences.
1.3.3 Adaptation of Tourism Industry: Examining how the tourism industry in
Mwanza has adapted to the post-COVID-19 era, including strategies
implemented by businesses to ensure safety, attract tourists, and
sustain operations.
1.3.4 Socio-economic Implications: Assessing the socio-economic
implications of the changing tourist behavior and industry adaptation
on local communities, businesses, and government policies in Mwanza.
1.3.5 Future Outlook: Exploring the anticipated long-term effects of the
pandemic on tourism in Mwanza and identifying potential strategies for
sustainable recovery and growth.
1.4 Purpose of the study
1.4.1 Understanding Tourist Behaviour: To gain insights into how tourist
behaviour has evolved in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including
changes in travel preferences, decision-making processes, and spending
patterns.
1.4.2 Identifying Industry Trends: To identify emerging trends and
preferences within the tourism industry in Mwanza post-pandemic, such as
the rise of sustainable tourism practices, digital transformation, and niche
market opportunities.
1.4.3 Assessing Industry Adaptation: To evaluate how the tourism industry in
Mwanza has adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic, including the
implementation of health and safety protocols, innovative marketing
strategies, and diversification of tourism offerings.
1.4.4 Informing Policy and Strategy: To provide stakeholders, including
government agencies, tourism businesses, and local communities, with
valuable insights and recommendations for policy formulation, strategic
planning, and resource allocation to support the recovery and sustainable
growth of the tourism sector.
1.4.5 Contributing to Knowledge: To contribute to the body of knowledge on
post-pandemic tourism dynamics, including the resilience of tourism
destinations, the role of technology in shaping tourist behaviour, and the
importance of sustainability in tourism development.
1.5 Research adjectives
1.5.0 Main objective
1.5.1 Investigate and analyze the changes in tourist behavior, preferences,
and industry adaptation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus
on understanding the implications for the tourism sector in Mwanza.
1.5.2 specific objectives
1 To analyze the perceived risks and concerns of tourists regarding travel to
Mwanza in the post-COVID-19 era, including health-related worries, safety
measures, and destination attractiveness.
2 To assess the socio-economic implications of the changing tourist behavior
and industry adaptation on local communities, businesses, and government
policies in Mwanza.
3 To provide recommendations for policymakers, tourism businesses, and
other stakeholders to support the recovery and sustainable development of
the tourism sector in Mwanza post-pandemic.
1.6 Significance of the study
This study holds significant importance as it provides timely and critical
insights into the post-COVID-19 tourism landscape in Mwanza, offering
valuable information for policymakers, tourism businesses, and local
communities. By understanding the changes in tourist behaviour,
preferences, and industry adaptation, stakeholders can develop targeted
strategies to support the recovery and sustainable growth of the tourism
sector. Additionally, the study’s findings can inform decision-making
processes regarding resource allocation, infrastructure development, and
marketing efforts, ultimately contributing to the economic revitalization of
Mwanza and enhancing its competitiveness as a tourism destination in the
post-pandemic era.
