To examine the local people participation in tourism for inclusive development: a case of Budondo sub-county Jinja district.

Abstract

The objectives of the study included the following; to assess the activities that local people participate in tourism, to examine the problems that limit local people from effectively participating in tourism, and to examine the measures that can enable local people participate actively and effectively in tourism. The study was conducted in Jinja, Eastern Uganda, a location renowned for being the source of the Nile. Jinja boasts attractions like Nalubaale and Kira power dams, industrial zones, lush landscapes, riverine forests, and Lake Victoria. The district comprises three counties – Butembe, Kagoma, Jinja Municipality – with six sub-counties, 46 parishes, and 381 villages. Agriculture thrives, while industries include metal and sugar processing, coffee cultivation, and brewing. Lusoga is the main language, and the 2022 population of Jinja City was 97,292. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data collected on June 20, 2023, included numeric information such as employment figures and tourist arrivals, while qualitative data gathered on June 22, 2023, through interviews, captured non-numeric insights. The sample consisted of tourists, transport operators, lodge and restaurant staff, tour operators, site managers, and opinion leaders. The data collection methods included face-to-face interviews and structured questionnaires distributed among different levels of tourism industry management in Jinja district. Findings revealed that the data highlights the active and diverse participation of local people in supporting the tourism industry in Budondo. Despite their involvement, limited financial resources, poor road conditions, and the seasonality of tourist arrivals pose significant obstacles to their effective participation in tourism activities. However, there are measures that can enable their active involvement, such as conducting research to understand their specific needs and designing targeted loan programs. Sensitization efforts also play a crucial role in educating the community about the benefits of tourism. Collaboration between politicians and NGOs is vital in advocating for infrastructure development and providing support. By addressing these challenges and implementing the identified measures, stakeholders can create a more inclusive and sustainable tourism environment, empowering local people to contribute actively and effectively to the tourism sector in Budondo sub-county.