ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON SERVICE INDUSTRIES IN NORTH SHEWA ZONE, ETHIOPIA: A FOCUS ON TOURISM, TRANSPORTATION, AND HOTEL BUSINESSES

The pastimes have been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which was declared a Public Health International Emergency Concern (PHIEC). People across the world faced disruptions in various aspects of life, including social, psychological, economic, employment, education, and services. The global outbreak created an ordeal, spreading rapidly and leading many countries to enforce nationwide lockdowns and border closures. Service industries, including retail, tourism, transport, distribution, and food services, were among the hardest hit during these challenging pastimes. These industries not only faced financial strain but also experienced psychological and physical challenges. This study aims to assess the impact of COVID-19 on service industries, particularly tourism, in the North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia. A survey was conducted using a questionnaire, collecting data from service industry professionals in the tourism transport sector within selected woredas of the zone. Respondents included managerial-level and senior personnel. The analysis involved frequency tables, graphs, chi-square tests of association, and regression analysis. The findings indicate that the type and scale of service industries, awareness of COVID-19, social distancing practices, operational adjustments, mutual support, and business shutdowns significantly influenced the level of impact on service industries. As a result, it is recommended that the government continue to raise awareness about safe business operations during crises. Similarly, service industries should adapt their business models to align with the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.