Post Crisis Recovery of Star Rated Hotels in Mekelle and Its Challenges

Abstract

The dual challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest have significantly affected the hospitality sector in Mekelle, Ethiopia. This research primarily aims to investigate the postcrisis recovery of star-rated hotels in Mekelle and identify the challenges encountered in the wake of war and the pandemic. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study distributed 70 self-administered questionnaires to hotel Professionals owners and industry experts across various star-rated establishments. The sample size was determined using Purposive sampling to ensure representativeness. Primary data were gathered through these questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from organizational reports and relevant academic literature. Data analysis utilized simple descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage. The findings indicate that both the pandemic and civil unrest have resulted in substantial declines in hotel revenue, increased unemployment, shifts in consumer preferences, and a significant disruption of the recovery trajectory within the hospitality sector. The study underscores the critical need for hotels to prioritize the safety and security of both employees and guests. Furthermore, it advocates for strategic diversification of services and the implementation of adaptive operational frameworks to effectively navigate the complexities of recovery. This research offers valuable insights into the resilience of star-rated hotels in Mekelle amidst unprecedented challenges, laying the groundwork for future strategies aimed at promoting recovery and sustainability in the hospitality industry