Evaluation of Post Covid-19 Recovery Strategies on Tourism Sustainability at Kenya Wildlife Service.

Background. This study evaluated the post Covid -19 recovery strategies on tourism sustainability in I Kenya but with an inclination to Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Kenya Wildlife Service is the body that is mandated with protection of wildlife in the country. The post Covid-19 strategies were initiated by the Government of Kenya and implemented by relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies. Strategies bestowed upon the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife were therefore cascaded down to the various sectors under the Ministry ,key among the identified implementers being Kenya Wildlife Service; which is the major wildlife based tourism actor in the country. The study integrated knowledge from past pandemics in relation to tourism and general economic sustainability in a bid to understand the possible common impacts of pandemics under similar conditions. Objectives. The study objectives included:-to identify the post Covid-19 tourism responses, to examine the Post Covid-19 tourism recovery indicators and to assess the post Covid-19 opportunities for tourism sustainability in Kenya Wildlife Service. Research Methodology. The study used a cross-sectional case study with a sample size of 85 individuals selected randomly from Kenya Wildlife Service, hoteliers, visitors and private tourism stakeholders within close proximity to the selected National Parks and Reserves in Kenya. Data collection was through a survey method involving both structured and non-structured questions. Data analysis was done through qualitative and quantitative techniques using computer programmes and presented in graphs, charts and tables. Study Findings. Findings based on the first objective: the study found that the sector employed various responses including policy a financial with the aim of reviving the sector. Findings based on the second objective: the study found marketing was the main strategy used with the aim of boosting the domestic tourism. Findings based on the third objective which to assess the post Covid -19 tourism opportunities identified domestic tourism, reduction in levies and fees, product diversification and embracing regional tourism opportunities. Conclusion. The study concluded that, the objectives could only be achieved by getting the global and local industry responses, indicators of the sector recovery and the sector sustainability opportunities presented by the pandemic. This study involved a survey at Kenya Wildlife Service as a government agency mandated with wildlife conservation and management hence anchoring the key wildlife-based tourism. Sustainability and reliability of the general tourism sector in the wake of various setbacks like natural catastrophes and global pandemic was a concern that led to seeking opinion of the sector managers. This drew the research to the pre- Covid 19 tourism performance trends, the change in the general tourism landscape including the new opportunities presented by the pandemic based on the response, recovery, resilience and the reforms in adapting to the new normal. Key Words: Covid-19, sustainability, resilience, strategies, opportunities