The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) conducted a survey between March 15 and 17, 2021 to assess the extent of recovery in the hotels, particularly with the increased uncertainties due to rising COVID-19 cases with the third wave of the pandemic. The survey was a follow up to the one conducted in January, with coverage expanded to include more hotels.
The highlights of the March 2021 Hotels Survey include:
- On average, 98 percent of hotels that were sampled across the country were operating compared to 97 percent in January and 35 percent in May 2020, mainly reflecting the continued re-opening of hotels following easing of COVID-19 restrictions and compliance with the health protocols;
- Employment in the sector continues to recover albeit slowly towards the pre-COVID levels, averaging 59 percent in March 2021 compared with 57 percent in January and 37 percent in May 2020, all relative to the pre-COVID-19 levels;
- The average bed occupancy, has also continued to recover gradually, averaging 27 percent in March, compared to 24 percent in January. The utilization of restaurants and conference services has also improved gradually since May 2020;
- Local guests continue to support activity in the sector during the COVID-19 period, accounting for over 87 percent and 84 percent of the total clientele for accommodation and restaurant services, respectively; and
- On average, under the prevailing conditions, 39 percent of hotels expect to attain normal (preCOVID) levels of operations in 2021. Despite the recent resurgence in COVID-19 infections, respondents were optimistic about a strong recovery of the sector once the pandemic is contained.
Read the full report here…