The Implications of the Upcoming Rwanda Elections on Tourism: The Rwandese national election will be held on the fifteenth of July this year, a situation that holds various impacts on some of the sectors such as tourism. As much as the elections are part of the Rwandese democracy process, the influence of the elections on tourism varies. This paper aims to discuss the impacts of Rwanda’s upcoming elections on tourist traffic and its possible consequences in the sphere of tourism in terms of security, travelers’ behavior, and economic aspects.
Safety and Security
This is because elections can sometimes cause people to be insecure, especially in the region they are traveling and this can easily sway the travelers’ decision. Anyone planning a vacation tends to evaluate the stability of the country in question. Rwanda is one of the most secure nations in Africa that has vested its priorities in security and order. However, some tourists may feel that during the election period, there may be various unrest hence may not book for tourism during such periods.
Government Measures
Through previous elections, the Rwandan government has employed very strict measures to prevent violent incidences. Higher police patrols, messages from the authorities, and previous years’ elections’ effectiveness may also positively influence tourists’ decisions. Because of this government’s active position in maintaining order, it will be difficult for people to develop negative attitudes toward the election period; thus there will be continuity in the flow of tourists.
Travel Behavior
Pre-Election Travel Trends
It is also worth admitting that during the weeks preceding the elections, there might be a tendency towards a decrease in tourist flow as tourists are likely to await the outcome. Some of the tour operators and travel agencies could experience clients’ tend to delay their travelling plans till after the elections. However, any spectators that have booked may go ahead with their booking based on the countries peaceful history and assurance of protective measures in the course of event.
Election Day Impact
It is important to note that on the actual day of an election, there may well be a voting clampdown in some areas especially in city centers like Kigali. Visitors in the country could experience altered transportation or some sites might be closed for them. One should avoid being a target by being aware through either the hotel or a local guide of any activities that occur and how to avoid them.
Post-Election Recovery
After the elections, therefore, assuming a smooth process, the tourism is likely to recover fairly rapidly. Any temporary pauses will more than likely pass, and the positive outcome of a flawless election can always help improve Rwanda’s reputation as a safe and secure tourism destination. The latter can cause renewed interest from the tourists and a corresponding increase in patronage.
Economic Stability
The results of the elections can directly affect the investors’ confidence in the growth of tourism in Rwanda. Plenty of existing investments in infrastructure, hospitality and service sectors, that are required to facilitate tourists and tourism related activities, due to a politically stable environment. That means positive election results can help to strengthen confidence among the existing and new investors to continue development of the tourism facilities.
Tourism Marketing and Promotion
Promotional campaigns including those by national tourism boards and commercial entities are usually stepped up after the elections. Marketing campaigns, such as the gorilla tracking in the Volcanoes National Park, the wildlife in Akagera National Park, and others probably will be stepped up, given Rwanda’s stability and growth evidenced by the electoral activity.
Tourism Activities and Attractions
Rwanda’s main tourist attractions particularly the national parks and wildlife tours are often situated at areas that are far from the cities where electoral activities are most rife. Therefore, tourism activities in such areas cannot be easily checked or restricted in any way so they are most likely to keep on flourishing. Tourists will still be able to do Gorilla trekking, game drives, and cultural experiences to a large extent.
Cultural and Historical Sites
It is also important to wish sites that have historical and cultural importance will experience a post-election rush as the country presents its assets and buff history. Museums such as the National Museum of Rwanda, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial, among others; thus, are among the post-election tourism attractions in Rwanda.
Recommendations for Tourists
Stay Informed
Any travelers intending to visit Rwanda during the time of the election should ensure that he or she follow the latest events’ updates. Some of the reliable information sources include: Travel advisories from their home country This they can get from their embassies or consulates in Rwanda, statements from Rwandan authorities, travel agents and tour operators.
Flexible Travel Plans
Thus, it is desirable to stay as open as possible to schedule changes during travel. It entails flexibility in the activity schedule and willingness to alter the plans due to unfavorable conditions and guidelines. Engage with Local Guides
Tour operators should hire professionals with vast knowledge of the country and region of destination to make the vacation to be more secure and enjoyable. Local guides now are in a position to arrange or deal with any alternation or even disruption that may occur in the period of election.
Conclusion
Analyzing the importance of Rwanda’s scheduled elections that are to be held on 15 July, it is possible to identify several factors that may affect tourism. Although there are short-term risks and wavering, the stable history and strict security measures combined with the government’s activities will ensure that negative effects are not critical. Indeed people can still come and enjoy the pleasures that Rwanda has to offer only if the necessary arrangements are made and people are aware of the situation. Provided the elections go on peacefully as has been forecasted, it will cement Rwanda’s image as a secure and stable country for tourists, and consequently, be of advantage to tourism in the country in the long run.
