Browsing by Author "Mnzava, Sara"

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    The role of information in addressing the local community on ecotourism in Tanzania: a case study of Bagamoyo coastal area
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2013) Mnzava, Sara
    This study investigates the role of information in addressing the local community on ecotourism in Tanzania. Data for the study were collected from both secondary and primary sources of information. The primary data were collected through interviews with key informants, self-administered questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions and observation. Qualitative data were analysed through content analysis while quantitative data through the SPSS Programme. Findings from the study reveal that the majority of the local community respondents in Bagamoyo are not fully aware of ecotourism. The findings also reveal that shortage of Tour Guide Professionals prevent continuous dissemination of information on ecotourism not only to the local community, but also to the general public. Findings further reveal that sources of communication and channels are readily available but are not affordable to the local community in the Bagamoyo Coastal Area. Challenges facing them when accessing information on ecotourism have been discussed and these included shortage of ecotourism professionals with adequate knowledge on ecotourism; unaffordable sources of communication and channels; lack of conservation and management of the environment. The study concludes that awareness of ecotourism and its advantages to the general public is essential for both effective and early discovery of ecotourism. A major recommendation to this study is that ecotourism professionals should be prepared with adequate education on ecotourism so that they provide it to the general public to enable them understand ecotourism and its benefits; conservation and management necessary in promoting its activities in order to raise their standard of living. Finally, this study recommends further areas for future research.