How the post election violence in Kenya affected Tourism

“The 2007–08 Kenyan crisis refers to a political, economic, and humanitarian crisis that erupted in Kenya after incumbent President Mwai Kibaki was declared the winner of the presidential election held on December 27, 2007. Supporters of Kibaki’s opponent, Raila Odinga of the Orange Democratic Movement, alleged electoral manipulation. This was widely confirmed by international observers, perpetrated by both parties in the election.”

The political violence that erupted in Kenya in 2007- 08 after disputed election increase the countries economic problems of a country which is known as one of Africa’s most prosperous and tourist-friendly states, as well as that of its neighboring nations.

After multiple studies were made, Economist declared that Kenya had suffered up to one billion U.S. dollars in losses due to the violence that followed after President Mwai Kibaki’s rigging of the votes. This subsequent violence ended up in tallied death of 600 people.

Tourism in Kenya is known as the wealthiest sectors in the country due to the beaches and safaris it has to offer. After the election, this sector was the most severely hit. Occupancy in hotels dropped up to 20% as news coverage on rioting and looting caused many of the tourists to give up their trips to Kenya.

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