Assessment of the local community’s perception towards the development of avian tourism In Lake Wamala ecosystem

Abstract

This study was undertaken to assess the local community's perceptions regarding avian tourism development in the Lake Wamala ecosystem, in Central Uganda. The objectives were: 1) to assess the community perception of avian tourism development within the Lake Wamala ecosystem; 2) to determine the factors that could influence the development of avian tourism around Lake Wamala Ecosystem; 3) to identify strategies for promoting the development of avian tourism around Lake Wamala Ecosystem The methods included interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions from the areas of Mityana Town, Nkonya, Gombe, Butebi, and Lukanga. A total of 80 respondents, comprising 60 local community members, 10 local administrators, and 10 representatives from district offices and the Uganda Tourism Board, were selected through simple random sampling. A semi-structured interview guide was used for data collection. The data analysis was summarized and processed using SPSS. A significant majority of respondents (85%) recognize avian tourism as a viable economic opportunity, indicating a strong community interest in developing this sector. Over half of the respondents (55%) highlighted a lack of infrastructure as a critical barrier to avian tourism development, including the need for designated bird-watching sites, trails, and eco-lodges. Many community members (55%) expressed the importance of incorporating environmental education into tourism experiences to enhance visitor engagement and foster ecological stewardship. Half of the survey respondents (50%) emphasized the need for collaboration with conservation organizations to support sustainable tourism practices and improve access to resources. The community demonstrated a strong preference for investment in eco-friendly facilities, such as eco-lodges (55%), and expressed interest in training programs related to avian tourism. This study examines the local community's perception of avian tourism development in the Lake Wamala ecosystem, revealing a generally positive outlook among residents who recognize its potential economic benefits while also emphasizing the need for environmental conservation. Key factors influencing avian tourism development include the necessity for improved infrastructure, such as bird-watching trails and signage, alongside addressing knowledge gaps about local bird species and concerns over unsustainable practices. The research highlights the importance of fostering environmental awareness through educational initiatives and collaborating with conservation organizations to secure resources for sustainable tourism. Recommendations include investing in eco-focused infrastructure, implementing training programs for locals, and developing targeted marketing strategies to attract eco-tourists, thereby enhancing both community involvement and the protection of avian biodiversity.