This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
Kenya's hospitality industry continues to grapple with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the latest development, Sarova Hotels and Resorts Kenya has announced plans to cease the management of two of its hotels, Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge and Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge, effective July 1, 2020.
Located within the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, the two hotels will no longer operate under Sarova's portfolio. This decision comes on the heels of the company's November 2019 announcement to cease management of the Spirit of the Masai Mara, located within the Siana Conservancy in the Maasai Mara.
Other hotels in the country have also been affected by the pandemic. In March, Serena Hotels temporarily closed some of its establishments in anticipation of reduced business levels until June 15, 2020. Meanwhile, Southern Sun's Mayfair Hotel shut down operations on January 31, 2020, citing tough economic times, and firing all its employees.
Mayfair Hotel, owned by South Africa's Tsogo Group, had been operational in Kenya for over 10 years. The hotel's closure is a testament to the challenges facing the hospitality industry in the country.
