Tourism and socio cultural developments case study in the: Maasai community,-Oletukat location Narok north Consitituency
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Date
2011-05
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Publisher
Kampala International University, College of Economics and Management
Abstract
Tourism development creates social and cultural channels. instead of tourism assisting to ameliorate sociocultural problems confronting a community, it has become part of the process of distorting their social, cultural and historical values. Due to tourism, elements of a community’s culture are changed to appeal more directly to tourists or they may be readily consumed by tourists. Indigenous culture of a community is inaccurately glorified and embellished in order to increase its attractiveness to tourists.
In spite of the many negative sociocultural effects associated with its development, tourism has also helped to recognize and promote the distinctive culture of a community, and has led to the conservation and revitalization of traditional arts, handicrafts, dance, music, drama, customs and ceremonies, dress, and certain aspects of traditional lifestyles.
The study employed a descriptive research design. With Oletukat location representing the population under investigation, the sample population comprised local residents, community leaders, tourists, park rangers and tour guides. The sample size that participated in the study was forty (40) respondents with potential respondents being restricted to those of eighteen years of age or older.
A self administered questionnaire was developed consisting of matrix and open-ended questions and was divided into two major sections; respondents degree of agreement with statements describing tourism’s sociocultural effects, and questions requiring respondents views. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution table.
The findings revealed respondents agreeing that tourism development had both positive and negative sociocultural effects on the community. Tourism development led to renewal of cultural pride, conservation of culture, cross cultural exchange and international understanding. The most perceived negative sociocultural effects of tourism development were trivialization of native art, social dualism, conflicting activities, staged authenticity, cultural distortions and demonstration efficient. This study therefore recommends that, tourism planners should give considerable emphasis to the sociocultural effects of tourism development. The government in consultations with the community members and other stakeholders in the tourism sector should prepare a
sociocultural policy in order to mitigate the negative effects and promote the positive
sociocultural effects of tourism. The locals should also be sensitized about tourism and the problems associated with its development.
Description
A Research Dissertation Submitted In Partial Fulfillment Of The Requirements For The Award Of The Degree Of Bachelor In Tourism And Hotel Management At Kampala International University
Keywords
Tourism, Socio cultural developments, Maasai community,-Oletukat location Narok north Consitituency