The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Small-Scale Hospitality and Tourism Businesses in Coastal Communities in Ghana

Victor Owusu, Raphael Ane Atanga, Yaw Agyeman Boafo, Kojo Gyabaah, Richard Boateng

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every facet of society globally. This chapter investigated the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale hos­pitality and tourism businesses in Winneba, a coastal town in Ghana’s central region. Following the qualitative case study approach, 19 in-depth interviews were conducted with managers and operators of small-scale hospitality and tourism businesses. The findings revealed that businesses, including ‘chop bars’, ‘one-man kebabs’, guest houses, and recreational centres, experienced significant adverse effects on opera­tions, supply, and finances. Self-reported outcomes included low patronage, addi­tional expenditure on COVID-19 safety protocols, spoilage of perishable foodstuff, expiration of items in stock, temporal shutdowns, and staff layoffs. These effects were attributed to the ban on social gatherings, lockdowns, closure of schools, border closure, and restricted access or ban on beach-going. Coping strategies adopted by businesses included the closure of companies, adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures, and switching to delivery services. From these findings, it is imperative for relevant tourism policy and decision-makers in Ghana to implement tailor-made COVID-19-related stimulus packages such as tax reliefs, soft loans with low interest, and utility bill discounts if these businesses are to continue operation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCOVID-19, Tourist Destinations and Prospects for Recovery
Subtitle of host publicationan African Perspective: Volume 2
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Pages21-40
Number of pages20
Volume2
ISBN (Electronic)9783031246555
ISBN (Print)9783031246548
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2023
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • COVID-19 pandemic
  • Coastal tourism
  • Crisis management
  • Ghana
  • Small-scale hospitality and tourism business

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