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The tourism sector has exuded confidence in the gradual recovery ahead of the high season of July to September. 

After a tough operating environment for the sector the players are now gearing up for the peak season starting with the second edition of the Safari Rally set to be hosted later in the month.

David Gitonga, Tourism Research Institute CEO said the prospects for recovery are now higher following the lifting of some of the travel restrictions.

He said that after the myriad of struggles occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic, the sector is now breathing a sigh of relief.  “This is because most restrictions are being lifted and the incoming International visitors are not required to undergo a PCR test for Covid. All that is required of them is a proof of vaccination. Furthermore, the infection rates are low,” Gitonga told Business Hub.

However, this year the peak season is expected to start early for the sector following the second edition of the World Rally Championship to be held between June 23 and 26.

The event had last year been tipped to inject a minimum of Sh6 billion into the economy, according to Phineas Kimathi, WRC Safari Rally CEO, but it did better than expected raising about Sh8 billion.