Impacts of Political Instability on Income and Employment in the Tourism Sector in Mombasa, Diani, and Malindi, Kenya
Keywords:
Political Instability, Income, Employment, Post-Election Violence, Coastal Kenya, Mombasa, Diani, Malindi, Tourism Sector, LivelihoodsAbstract
Political instability remains a major disruptor of tourism-dependent economies, particularly in destinations where livelihoods and employment rely heavily on visitor flows. In Kenya’s coastal region, Mombasa, Diani, and Malindi represent key tourism hubs that generate income and employment for hotels, tourism suppliers, and local communities. Despite their economic importance, these areas remain vulnerable to political shocks such as the 2007–2008 post-election violence and subsequent election-related tensions. This study examined the impacts of political instability on income and employment in the tourism sector in Mombasa, Diani, and Malindi, Kenya. The study was grounded on Political Risk Theory and Sustainable Livelihoods Framework. It adopted a case study research design and used a mixed-methods approach involving questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. A sample of 284 respondents comprising hotel managers, tourism suppliers, and local community members was selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings indicate that political instability significantly reduces tourism income through declining tourist arrivals, cancellations, and reduced occupancy rates in hotels. The 2007 post-election violence led to substantial revenue losses, business closures, and debt accumulation among tourism suppliers. Employment levels were also negatively affected through layoffs, salary reductions, and increased job insecurity across the tourism value chain. At the community level, instability resulted in widespread unemployment, loss of livelihoods, and increased socio-economic vulnerability. Statistical results confirmed a significant relationship between political instability and reduced tourism business performance (χ² = 10.977, p = 0.004). The study concludes that political instability exerts both direct and indirect adverse effects on tourism income and employment in coastal Kenya. Strengthening political stability and enhancing tourism resilience strategies are essential for safeguarding livelihoods and sustaining tourism-driven development in Mombasa, Diani, and Malindi.
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