The Women’s Career Advancement and Performance of Upmarket Food and Beverage Services in the Hotel Industry of Rwanda: Case Study of Park Inn by Radisson Blu and Ubumwe Grande Hotels

Abstract

The global hospitality industry, contributing about 10.4% to global GDP and employing over 319 million people, faces significant gender disparities in leadership roles. In Rwanda's upscale hospitality sector, including Park Inn by Radisson Blu and Ubumwe Grande Hotel, cultural biases and societal norms impede women's progress into senior management. Despite government initiatives, barriers such as traditional gender roles, educational disparities, limited mentorship, and lack of female role models persist. This study, conducted from 2022 to 2023 with a sample size of 234, used a mixed-method approach to analyze these challenges. Findings revealed that 87.6% of respondents see cultural biases as obstructive, with major barriers being traditional roles (13.6%), educational gaps (7.3%), and lack of networking opportunities (3.5%). Other issues include family responsibilities (18.8%) and biases favoring male leadership traits (23.9%). Recommendations include implementing gender diversity quotas (11.9%), developing tailored leadership training (35.1%), establishing mentorship programs (21.4%), promoting work-life balance (17.9%), and conducting awareness campaigns (13.7%). Government support through diversity mandates, financial incentives, and equal pay regulations is essential for fostering gender equity and enhancing women’s leadership opportunities in Rwanda's hospitality sector.