Opportunities and challenges of developing tourism in Uganda: A case study of Buvuma Island

Abstract

This study was carried out in Buvuma island Buvuma District to assess the opportunities and challenges of developing tourism in Uganda. The research was guided by objectives which included identifying the actual and potential tourism resources at Buvuma Island in Uganda, examine the tourism opportunities that can be developed at Buvuma Island and to establish the challenges limiting the development of tourism at Buvuma Island. Various research methods were employed including questionnaires administered to both local residents since they were the key beneficiaries. Interviews were conducted with local officials like District like Local council chairpersons, District Community Development Officer among others because they were the key informants and possessed vital information related to the study. Personal observation was also used as a basis to capture information that would not covered by two methods. 40 respondents were randomly selected and data was analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. The results revealed that there were actual tourism resources available in Buvuma Island which includes Lakes like Lake Victoria, hills, caves and stones, local culture, wild animals among others as on the other hand the respondents further identified potential tourist resources and attractions as re varied ranging from forests like Nyabingo forest , boat cruise at lake Victoria accommodation and water spots and birding as the main potential tourism resources found at Buvuma island. Results further revealed that these tourism resources have led to the development of different tourism opportunities which include; employment in tourism related enterprises, supply of goods such as food products and sell of souvenirs like crafts to the tourists, income. Infrastructure development and improved conservation awareness among others. However challenges like limited funds, lack of tourism awareness, poor infrastructure , lack of community participation were hindering the development of tourism at Buvuma island the study recommended that aggressive marketing campaign should be done by both government and private tourism operators to promote Buvuma and that Uganda Tourism board should organize both tourism workshops and seminars in order to equip local community with enough knowledge and skills to use the available tourism opportunities on Buvuma Island.