Occurrences across the African continent have resulted in a drop of tourist arrivals. The 6% decline in the tourist numbers can be credited to acts of terrorism which have occurred across the continent from the Sousse attack in Tunisia to the Garissa attack in Kenya and the Boko Haram menace in Nigeria. The very recent attacks in Mali at the Radisson Blu in the capital city shows the continuing thread of terror across the continent. It is no understatement that tourism largely contributes to the national GDP of African countries.
State governments have to be more affirmative in countering the forces of terror. Indeed government focus on security ed by affirmative action is important in order to ensure that both locals and foreigners are reminded that their safety is a key priority for the government.
What course of action should be adopted by a government to prove that it has the safety of its population in mind? A nonchalant government would show no effort to alleviate the fears of its populace and ensure their safety. This would not fare well for the progress of the nation in general aspects as well as in of tourism which is a major source of employment for many African countries.
After visible efforts on the part of the government to ensure security, the consolidation of their efforts can commence. This is seen in the case of Kenya which is undergoing its consolidation phase after the unfortunate Garissa attack. The Pope’s “African” tour could be seen as a could be seen as a consolidating effort but what happens after the Pope leaves is what will be of importance. Consolidating the safety of the country in the minds of not only the locals but also for tourists is key.
Setting up enforcement capacities in destinations where safety rules need to adhered to is also important in order to ensure the safety of the visitors. By putting into place these measures, the decline that was witnessed in the tourist numbers is sure to be reversed and this would have a positive impact. More importantly, safety is guaranteed. The key aspect is to ensure sustainability for the measures to be continuously reinforced. Will terrorism be the end of tourism in Africa?
