Livelihood Dynamics, the COVID-19 outbreak, and coping mechanisms. A case study of tour guides in Ethiopia

Abstract

Tourism is one of the hardest hit sectors following the COVID-19 pandemic. Tour guides have become one of the vulnerable labourers instantly following the collapse of tourism due to the pandemic. This qualitative study aims to examine the impact of the COVID-19 induced crisis on the tourism sector in Ethiopia. Special attention is given to tour guides in Ethiopia experiencing economic collapse during the COVID-19 outbreak. Through interviews with local and national tour guides this study examined the coping strategies that these individuals undertake. Primary data has been collected through online interviews with both local and national tour guides located in Ethiopia. Next to interviews, the data has been complemented with secondary data including policy documents, news articles and previous relevant research. Even though they might lack a certain capital, they use the assets that are available to them to reach their goals. Therefore, this crisis has a varied impact on different individuals. Overall, the study shows that their resilience depends on the ongoing adjustment they make to changes in relation to their assets. Their flexibility, access and use of these assets increase their resilience and improves their coping capacities. The study suggests that key strategies for tour guides to improve their livelihoods is to assure that they have other options, promote diversification strategies or enhance their possibilities in access to financial resources.