The Proprietor of Rendezvous Motel in Kenema Mr. Constant Thomas has said in an interview with Awoko that the Hospitality industry will expand during this post-ebola period with Government increasing its support to the sector. “We don’t just provide lodging for people, we also provide employment which is key to building the economy,” he said.
Mr Constant Thomas said that they in the hospitality business suffered during ebola as most of them closed down and are now struggling to revive their businesses with the end of the ebola epidemic.
Mr Thomas said very little is done to let the world know that there are breath taking and fascinating sites, not only in Freetown but in the provinces where tourists both local and international can explore paradise on earth.
Questioned why he decided to establish the motel in Kenema instead of anywhere else, Mr Thomas smiled and started explaining his story.
He is a clearing and forwarding agent with over twenty years experience and was making enough for himself and family, but he decided to quit as a result of the scarce accommodation in Kenema.
“Each time I visit Kenema I find it difficult to get a suitable accommodation with all facilities that go with it. Most of the accommodation facilities available are guest houses with no recreation, and services offered are below standard,” he said.
It was against this background that Constant Thomas teamed up with a brother abroad to establish Rendezvous with all facilities inclusive.
Mr. Thomas received materials from his business partner abroad to upgrade Rendezvous after ebola, but was left dumb founded looking at the amount of money he was asked to pay as custom duty for used fittings and accessories.
This is an area that Government needs to support small businesses, he said. Importation of building materials and used items for the hospitality industry should be taxed at reduced rate. The National Tourist Board can engage the Tourism Ministry to approach the National Revenue Authority on this, he said.
Mr Thomas has completed both the interior and exterior décor of the Rendezvous Motel, which has 15 spacious rooms, a lounge bar, restaurant, games room, and an African culture corner.
Monday July 04, 2016
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