Tourism in rural communities and implications for sustainable rural development.

• Main Authors: Tshepiso Jonathan Setokoe, Dr Israel Kariyana
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: AfricaJournals 2016-07-01
• Series: African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure
• Subjects: Community; Impact; Nqileni village; South Africa; Sustainable rural development
• Online Access: http://www.ajhtl.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_32_vol_5__3__final.pdf

The development of tourism in rural areas has, in recent times, taken centre stage in academic circles. This study analysed the impact of tourism on the development of the community of Nqileni village in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The analysis took the form of identifying the views of members of the community on tourism’s contribution to the development of the village and the area at large. Data was solicited from 22 respondents in the form of semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews. The results revealed that the community generally viewed tourism development as bringing about positive change. In contrast, the visitors expressed concerns regarding the sustainability of tourism in the area, citing lack of infrastructure and skills as the main limitations to the village’s objective of sustainability. The study recommends that government, businesses and the community engage with one another so as to provide for the shortcomings of the village, enhance the sustainable livelihood assets in order to help alleviate poverty and reduce vulnerability within the community.