Abstract:
This research investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Rwanda's economy and
foreign relations, focusing on the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA). It aimed to assess
the effects of travel restrictions, economic downturn, and health and safety regulations.
Theoretically this research considered three theories in particular assessing their assumptions and
their relevance to this study under investigation, among them include; the Theory of Economic
Shock and Recovery, the International Relations Theory and the Crisis Management Theory. A
sample of 55 out of 64 RCAA employees was analyzed using both descriptive and correlational
research designs, the sample size was determined using Slovin's formula of sample size
determination, which is appropriate for calculating the required sample size with a known
population and desired level of precision. The sampling for this research study employed a
combination of purposive and simple random sampling techniques. with quantitative data
examined through SPSS and qualitative data through thematic analysis. Findings show significant
disruptions: border closures disrupted diplomatic ties (mean = 4.24, SD = 0.71), quarantine
measures negatively impacted the economy (mean = 4.18, SD = 0.64), and flight cancellations
hindered trade (mean = 4.18, SD = 0.69). GDP shrinkage (mean = 4.18, SD = 0.64), rising
unemployment (mean = 4.15, SD = 0.61), and business closures (mean = 4.18, SD = 0.67) were
reported. Health regulations increased operational costs (mean = 4.05, SD = 0.89) and reduced
passenger traffic (mean = 4.03, SD = 0.82). Regression analysis revealed that economic downturn
had a statistically significant impact (B = 0.086, t = 0.880, p = 0.020), while travel restrictions had
a moderate effect (B = 0.096, t = 0.853, p = 0.095). Health and safety regulations had a less
pronounced effect (B = 0.049, t = 0.476, p = 0.635). ANOVA results confirmed a substantial
difference in impact with an F-statistic of 0.0972 (Sig. = .000). Correlation analysis showed strong
positive relationships between travel restrictions, economic downturn, and health regulations
(Pearson Correlation values r = .906, r = .910, r = .917, all significant at .000). Interviews
corroborated these findings, highlighting severe revenue losses, decreased passenger traffic, and
reduced cargo volume (mean values between 4.13 and 4.22). Foreign relations were strained with
declines in foreign direct investment (mean = 4.13) and disrupted trade agreements. The study
provides valuable insights for future policy-making and crisis management, benefiting
policymakers, the aviation industry, and the academic community by enhancing Rwanda's
economic resilience and international relations.
