Recreation and Tourism

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An investigation into the cultural and commercial significance of geophagy across generations of Basotho women: the case of Basotho women in Mafeteng, Lesotho
(2022) Notsi, Libopuoa
This study examines the cultural and commercial significance of geophagy (linyonyobetsane/earth eating/soil eating) across different generations of the Basotho women using the case study of women in Mafeteng area in Lesotho. Thus, I deploy the theoretical framework of indigenous knowledge systems and an exploratory case study design to make sense of the meaning(s) of geophagy from the standpoint and experience of the Basotho women who participate in this practice on daily basis. The specific indigenous knowledge system utilised to make sense of the practice of geophagy from a cultural and commercial point of view is the theory eZiko siPheka siSophula (an African indigenous theory), which is widespread among the Nguni people found in southern Africa. The findings of the study indicate that geophagy is not only common among the Basotho women of different age groups but also connote different cultural and commercial values beyond the physical act of eating soil among those who practice it. Therefore, amid the cultural and economic significance of geophagy for the Basotho women; aspects and meanings like soothing taste, quelling of nauseaous feelings, and pleasant flavour indicate that, indeed, geophagy is not a meaningless act of consuming soil by women of different generations but embodies specific meanings that can only be understood from an insider’s perspective. The overall aim of the study was to investigate the intergenerational, cultural and commercial significance of geophagy among Basotho women in Mafeteng. Geophagy is an observed old practice that has been transferred from one generation to another even though it still raises questions in the contemporary world. Therefore, it has never received a universal appropriate name. To demonstrate the cultural and commercial benefits of earth eating and to examine relationships between scientific and indigenous knowledge of earth eating, the study employed a qualitative technique that made use of focus group discussion (lekhotla or indigenous talking circle) as a way of collecting data throughout all the regions with the help of a focus group guide to unravel deeper conversations. The study concluded that building collaboration, and a partnership among different relevant stakeholders, to promote geophagy is fundamental. The study is envisaged to inspire policymakers and community development that instil sustainable healthy geophagy and stimulate entrepreneurial strategies for rural women.
Analysing tourism routes for local economic development in Zululand District KwaZulu-Natal
(University of Zululand, 2020) Ntenga, Thulani Comfort
In the history of tourism and economic development, tourism routes have been considered a key instrument in addressing problems of social and economic growth. Although a considerable amount of research has been carried out on tourism and its socio-economic impacts, to date, there is little agreement on the extent tourism routes impact on social and economic development in rural settings. Drawing on the case study of Zululand District, this study examines the impact of tourism routes in enhancing local economic development in the rural areas. It also assesses the level of awareness of local communities on the benefits of tourism routes. A qualitative approach was used in this study. Data for this study were collected using a combination of semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis as a data collection tool. Semi-structured interviews were conducted after a non-probabilistic sampling technique was applied to select individuals (n = 20) who are directly involved in the tourism development within the study area as well as in the relevant departments. In keeping with results from previous studies, findings from this study revealed that tourism plays a critical role in the economic and human development of persons who fall within the vicinity of any given tourism route.
Assessing the performance in high schools offering tourism in Nkomazi sub-district in Mpumalanga province
(University of Zululand, 2022) Banda, Phasile Tilly
In general, Tourism as a subject is regarded as an easy subject or a subject which is easy to be passed even if one does not have its background knowledge. A number of schools take the subject for granted in such a way that learners are encouraged to enrol for the subject at , without having any knowledge of the subject while in Grade 10 and 11. Some schools have failed to consider the special requirements as stipulated in the Tourism Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) before offering the subject. It has therefore become a common practice for a number of schools in the province that Tourism (as a school subject) is introduced without following the right procedure. The province has four districts: Bohlabela, Ehlanzeni, Gert Sibande, and Nkangala. The study was conducted at Ehlanzeni district with the main focus on Nkomazi sub-district. The main aim of the study was to find out what could be the possible cause of underperformance of learners in high school doing Tourism at Grade 12 in Nkomazi sub-district in the Mpumalanga Province. The key findings in this mixed methods research are as follows:  Apart from shortage and lack of recommended infrastructure (facilities), it was also found that Tourism classrooms not shared with other subjects were not available in 90% of the schools.  Scarcity of resources, absence of the internet connection, LTSM, including textbooks, maps and globes in schools were also found as impacting negatively on academic performance.  Teachers did not use a variety of teaching and learning styles, and strategies when teaching.  Assessment and assessment strategies including medium of instruction were found to be leading to misunderstanding of questions.  It was discovered also that lesson preparation is key, as it enabled the teacher to cover the content of the curriculum.  Regarding teacher qualification, 60% of the participants were of the opinion that teachers need to be qualified. The study recommends that the Department of Education should not allow schools to offer Tourism as a school subject if the necessary infrastructure and resources are not available.There should be the internet facilities, and supply of LTSM. There should also be monitoring programmes to ensure that different teaching and learning styles are used. It is recommended that a political globe not shared with Geography should be put in place. Tourism teachers should have a qualification, and skills development programmes should include courses that will develop teachers, and give them certification. Funds may be allocated to teachers who want to have qualification in Tourism.
The attributes of successful tourism-related entrepreneurs in Mtubatuba Local Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal
(University of Zululand, 2020) Ntshangase, Sibusiso David
Previous studies have recognized entrepreneurs as a significant part of the global pursuit for sustaining economic development and social progress in the world. The attributes that lead to successful entrepreneurial undertaking need to be properly researched. This study therefore explores the entrepreneurial attributes that have significant impact in differentiating between successful and struggling tourism entrepreneurs in South Africa, using Mtubatuba Local Municipality as a case. A structured questionnaire survey was used to collect data. Convenience sampling was employed in selecting 124 tourism-related entrepreneurs living in different regions of Mtubatuba Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa. Data analyses were done using IBM’s SPSS version 25 software for statistical purposes. Descriptive (Frequency, Mean, Standard Deviation), bivariate (Spearman’s Correlation, Mann Whitney U test) and multivariate (Reliability test using Cronbach’s Alpha) data analyses yield information to address research objectives. The results indicate that the entrepreneurial attributes that somewhat differentiate successful entrepreneurs from struggling entrepreneurs are: business drive and enthusiasm, being efficient and effective, and being visionary and having achievement motivation. This study also validates that socio-demographic variables tend to be more useful in explaining the reasons for success or struggle among entrepreneurs than behavioural variables. This study recommends that Mtubatuba Local Municipality needs to organize targeted Tourism Development and Tourism Business Management education for the willing population of Mtubatuba Local Municipality, in collaboration with Tourism KwaZulu-Natal. By so doing, equal opportunity can be granted to anyone who wants to start-up and manage a new tourism business.
Black entrepreneurial development in the tourism industry: initiatives within the greater Durban metropolitan area [GDMA]
(University of Zululand, 2008) Vilakazi, Albert Ndleleni Dupree; Magi, L.M.; Nzama, A.T.
Any development, be it tourism development needs to be well planned and executed so as to effectively benefit the broader society in any entrepreneurial environment. Municipalities, such as strategic management model, the national mandate to promote tourism development within their areas with a bias to enhance entrepreneurship and Black economic empowerment. The application of such principles is particularly needed in the GDMA mainly for addressing of basic needs, equity and redistribution of tourism wealth for the benefit of the previously disadvantaged communities. The main purpose of this study is therefore to advocate for the exploitation of tourism opportunities to the superlative degree by historically disadvantaged individuals. The focus of the study is on the identification of tourism business opportunities around the Durban Metropolitan Area. In addition, to develop strategic management approaches that could be used as a guideline to manage the tourism business and empowerment of the previously disadvantaged communities. Some of the objectives of the study are: (a) To reveal the extent of Black people's awareness of tourism entrepreneurial opportunities associated with the study area. (b) To establish the levels of stakeholder participation in the tourism entrepreneurial initiatives within the study area. (c) To investigate whether the BEE policy contributes towards tourism entrepreneurship within the Durban Metropolitan Area. (d) To identify appropriate competitive strategies that can be widely applied in enhancing tourism entrepreneurial opportunities for the benefit of stakeholders in the study area. (e) To propose a strategic management model that can be used as a blue print by entrepreneurs in the tourism industry. The methodology for collecting data comprised a stratified sample size of 178 respondents, which was distributed in the GDMA as follows: sample consisting of Black entrepreneurs [92], tourism officials [8], government officials [5], tourism business persons [27], local community and public [103]. The findings of the study indicated that, on the whole, a significant number of respondents were not sufficiently in support of many of the hypotheses. The findings of the study established that: (a) Black people are adequately aware of tourism entrepreneurial opportunities associated with the study area; (b) Black stakeholders do not participate significantly in the tourism entrepreneurial initiatives within the study area; (c) The present BEE policy as practiced makes an inadequate contribution towards tourism entrepreneurship within the Durban Metropolitan Area; (d) The existing competitive strategies are not adequately successful in enhancing tourism entrepreneurial opportunities for the benefit of stakeholders in the study area; (e) There is no readily existing strategic management model that can be used as a blue print by tourism entrepreneurs in the study area. In conclusion the study found that there was an urgent need for designing a strategic entrepreneurial development or management model that could be used as a blue print for tourism delivery in the study area. The study actually put forward a strategic BEE entrepreneurial management model with the hope that it would contribute to the solution of tourism entrepreneurial shortcomings, towards achieving an equitable distribution of tourism benefits to all stakeholders in the Durban Metropolitan Area. The prospects for future research in this area include: the sustainability of tourism entrepreneurial development initiatives, the community benefits from emerging BEE initiatives in the area, and the adjustment of tourism legislation so as to benefit the BEE infrastructural requirements within the study areas.
The brand essence and brand competitiveness of KwaZulu-Natal: Tourists’ perceptions
(University of Zululand, 2019) Mlambo, Sinolwazi Sindisile
The tourism industry has been growing rapidly over the years with the pass of time, the more crucial the industry tends to be, the more it contributing to the GDP. The growth of the tourism industry largely relies on the consumers of the tourism offerings, the tourists. This study aims to find out tourists’ perception of the KwaZuluNatal (South Africa) brand essence and brand competitiveness as a tourism destination. This research explored how tourists view the KwaZulu-Natal brand essence and if they regard it to be competitive compared to other destinations. The quantitative research method (structured questionnaire survey) was used to collect usable data from 406 respondents. Data analyses used descriptive statistics, bivariate tests (Spearman’s Correlation tests, Mann-Whitney U tests) and multivariate tests (Reliability tests using Cronbach’s Alpha) to reach study results. The results revealed that tourists are mostly satisfied with visiting KwaZulu-Natal; they indicated that the destination has value for their money. Most of the tourists are willing to return and they are willing to recommend KwaZulu-Natal to others. Tourists see KwaZulu-Natal as a competitive destination. Other interesting results that link tourists’ demographic profile to the KwaZulu-Natal brand essence and competitiveness perceptions, were unearthed in this study. The study makes recommendations that the KwaZulu-Natal should position itself more strongly as an international tourist destination, and focus on attracting matured visitors; those above the age of 30 years old. The service providers should focus more on providing tourism packages inclusive of transport, as a significant number of tourists reported that local transportation in KwaZulu-Natal is not efficient. Local communities in KwaZulu-Natal should work hand-in-glove with the police to improve safety and security in the destination, especially in and around the tourism facilities. These recommendations will assist the managers of the KwaZulu-Natal tourism destinations to improve the quality standards of the destination and help it to be able to compete more strongly in the national and global tourism marketplaces.
Coastal tourism development strategies In the town of st Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal: Conservation versus commercialisation
(2009) Ntuli, Siyabonga Robson; Magi, L.M.; Nzama, A.T.
Coastal tourism development strategies are a new phenomenon in the world of community development and community conservation. The development of tourism products as compared to their conservation, is an ongoing debate, which has been tackled by many tourism scholars. The management of natural and cultural environments is of utmost importance in the development of ecotourism in places such as the Town of St Lucia, as well as in the St Lucia Estuary. This research study, therefore, sought to assess on comparative basis the conservation and commercialisation [commodification] of tourism resources, paying particular attention to the application of coastal tourism development strategies. In other words, the research study involves identifying key management practices and strategies that would contribute to the conservation of tourism resources. In this regard the basic objectives of this study include the following: (a) To reveal the extent to which stakeholders understand the meaning and importance of tourism development in the Town of St Lucia. (b) To find out if the coastal tourism resources in the study area are adequately supplied. (c) To determine the level to which tourism management and development strategies are employed or utilised in the study area. (d) To find out which ecotourism policy approach the stakeholders favour for the study area, between conservation as compared to the commercialisation [commodification]. (e) To establish how stakeholders perceive the existence and application on tourism development policies in the study area. (f) To establish the extent to which the local community benefits from ecotourism related activities or practices. The government and municipal authorities believe that tourism could enhance the development of rural areas on an ecologically and economically viable basis and improve the quality of life of the local people. The study has several hypotheses in this regard, and has utilised the qualitative and quantitative approach in collecting, analysing and interpreting data. In fact, data was analysed through use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to establish frequency tables, bar graphs, and cross-tabulations in representing statistical data. The findings of the study included the following: (a) the stakeholders were found to have a good understanding of the meaning and importance of ecotourism development; (b) the supply of coastal tourism resources was found to be inadequate; (c) the tourism management and development strategies were not up to the required standard; (d) the stakeholders favoured the policy of conservation as compared to that of commercialisation or commodification; (e) the existence and application of tourism development policies were found to be inadequately implemented; (f) the ecotourism benefits for the local community were found to be available and adequate. Finally, the emerging conclusion of the study was that, notwithstanding that the stakeholders favoured the policy of conservation, they were of the view that ecotourism management and development strategies, as well as community beneficiation, were not up to the required and expected standard in the study area.
Community based tourism within uMhlathuze Municipality: involvement and participation of the local residents in tourism
(University of Zululand, 2014) Vundla, Happiness Bonakele; Nzama, A.T.
The study was based on community based tourism and was conducted to find out whether the local residents are involved and participate in community based tourism within the study area of uMhlathuze Municipality. Community based tourism provides job opportunities to those who participate and should, ideally, involve every resident of the study area. Men and women are to be given the equal participation opportunities. The study had the following specific objectives: (a) To establish the extent to which the local community understands the importance of tourism in the study area. (b) To find out the level of participation and involvement of the local community in community based tourism (c) To identify the types of community tourism facilities available in the study area. (d) To establish the strategies that can be used to promote involvement and participation in community based tourism within the study area. The findings of the study revealed that some community members do not even know the local tourism authorities who should be promoting community based tourism within the study area. Misconceptions about tourism became evident as some respondents viewed tourism as an activity for the rich and for the white people. The study is concluded by recommending the promotion of community based tourism within the study area applying the managerial strategies to promote participation and involvement by local communities.
Community participation in tourism development at KwaNgcolosi, Kwazulu-Natal : a feasibility study
(2000) Mazibuko, Nozipho Prudence; Magi, L.M.
Community participation in tourism developments in KwaNgcolosi (KwaZulu-Natal) forms an integral part of the government objectives in the tourism industry which are inter alia to, build a world class tourism industry and to integrate historically disadvantaged people into the mainstream of the industry. The aim of this study is to investigate the extent to which KwaNgcolosi communities are involved in tourism development in their area. It also aims to undertake a feasibility study of the establishment of the Zulu Cultural Village at KwaNgcolosi by the community members where they could be really involved and benefit. The following objectives were set for this study: ^> To reveal the level of involvement by the local community in the development of tourism infrastructure. => To establish the social, economic and environmental benefits and problems the community experiences from the existence of the KwaNgcolosi reserve. => To identify problems that hinder the community's participation in tourism development in their area. => To undertake a feasibility study on the development of a Zulu Cultural Village where the KwaNgcolosi community will be involved. The results from the survey indicate that there are a number of local people who really want to get involved in the tourism business as traditional dancers; sell traditional craft work; become cleaners and so forth. At the present moment KwaNgcolosi community's involvement in tourism development in their area is mostly at the level of temporary jobs which are occasionally offered to unskilled labour. Jobs offered to semi-skilled and skilled labour are limited. Problems seem to be more prominent than benefits. Some of the problems identified are: the lack of jobs from KwaNgcolosi reserve; no improvement in the general infrastructure; local artistic talent not used and pollution from cars. The lack of tourism awareness has been identified as one major contributing factor that hinders community participation in tourism development, as well as the breakdown of communication between Msinsi Holdings which is a company that is responsible for the administration of KwaNgcolosi reserve and the KwaNgcolosi chief. The feasibility study of the proposed Zulu Cultural Village was successful. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will encourage the establishment of the proposed Zulu Cultural Village. Some of the recommendations that emerged from the study include the following: => Mechanisms should be made by Msinsi Holdings and the KwaNgcolosi chief to provide kiosks or shelter for community members who want to sell their traditional handcraft in or near the KwaNgcolosi reserve. => The KwaNgcolosi chief must work hand in hand with Msinsi Holdings to improve the general infrastructure in KwaNgcolosi area. => Tourism awareness campaigns are needed in KwaNgcolosi community. => Community members interested in establishing a Zulu Cultural Village project, must be encouraged and supported by all stakeholders. The researcher concludes by indicating that there is a potential for community participation in tourism development at KwaNgcolosi, because the type of tourism product to be developed is related to their culture and they have most of the cultural skills, they only need to be empowered with business running skills and financial support to start the proposed Zulu Cultural Village business. It is only when the community benefits financially, socially and otherwise, that their participation in tourism development will become meaningful to them.
Cultural and heritage tourism development and promotion in the Ndwedwe municipal area: perceived policy and practice
(2009) Ximba, Elphas Zobaphi; Magi, L.M.; Nzama, A.T.
Any development or promotion of a product, be it in cultural tourism development or heritage, needs to be well planned and executed on the basis of existing policies, so as to effectively benefit the broader local community. Many municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal, such as the Ndwedwe Local Municipality, are dependent on an effective implementation of local policies and cultural tourism national mandate to promote tourism development within their areas with a bias to enhance Black economic empowerment. The application of such principles is particularly needed in the Ndwedwe Local Municipality, mainly for addressing of basic needs, equity and redistribution of cultural tourism wealth for the benefit of the previously disadvantaged communities. The fundamental aim of this research study is to establish how stakeholders perceive the existence and effectiveness of tourism policies and practices in the development and promotion of cultural tourism in the Ndwedwe Local Municipality. In other words the study seeks to establish the role played by policy and practice in the involvement, participation, and beneficiation of the Ndwedwe local communities. Among other things, the study is also carried out with a purpose of motivating the local community at Ndwedwe, to promote cultural tourism as well as to strive for the conservation of culture and heritage. It is clear that one of South Africa’ most abundant resources are the people and their diverse cultures. It is only recently that local community’s culture has begun to be appreciated and acknowledged for their true tourism potential. So cultural and heritage tourism is gradually gaining widespread acceptance as a true tourist attraction and also emerging as one of the most promising areas of economic development in South Africa. In order to put this investigation in its proper perspective, the following objectives were formulated: (a) To determine the level of understanding that the Ndwedwe stakeholders have towards the meaning of cultural tourism. (b) To examine the importance and value of developing and conserving culture for future generations in the study area. (c) To investigate the provision and maintenance of cultural and heritage tourism facilities in the study area. (d) To establish the levels of stakeholders participation in cultural and heritage tourism activities in the Ndwedwe Municipal Area. (e) To indicate how stakeholders perceive the existence and effectiveness of tourism policies and practices in the study area. (f) To assess the extent to which cultural and heritage tourism benefits are perceived by Ndwedwe stakeholders within the study area. The methodology for collecting data comprised a stratified sample size of 133 respondents, who were distributed in the Ndwedwe Local Municipality as follows: sample consisting of Tourism & Municipal Officials [12], Tourists [21], Tour Operators [16] and Local Community [84]. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences [SPSS] computer programme and represented using frequency tables and various graphics.
Cultural tourism as a development vehicle in Ulundi: perceptions and prospects
(2007) Dlomo, Penelope Lulu; Magi, L.M.; Nzama, A.T.
Increasingly, at the international as well as in South Africa, tourism is viewed as the largest industry in the world. It is believed that tourism offers enormous opportunities for the creation of growth, development and wealth to destinations and its local communities. Clearly South Africa certainly has many features which make it attractive to international tourists- game reserve, good weather, geography and even its political history. It is also clear that one of South Africa' most abundant resources are the people and their diverse cultures. It is only recent that people's cultures have begun to be appreciated and acknowledged for their true tourism potential. So cultural tourism is gradually gaining widespread acceptance as a true tourist attraction and also emerging as one of the most promising areas of economic development in South Africa. On the basis of this background, this study examines how cultural tourism can be seen as a development vehicle in Ulundi and how its local communities can benefit from it. The study further investigates the community's perceptions and expectations of cultural tourism in the area. In order to put the investigation in its proper perspective, the following objectives were formulated: • To investigate and identify community based cultural tourism activities in the study area that could promote tourism. • To reveal perceptions and expectations of Ulundi community towards cultural tourism. • To determine the level of understanding that Ulundi community has towards the meaning of cultural tourism. • To assess the extent to which cultural tourism benefits the community within the study area. • To examine the importance and value of conserving culture for future generations. • To establish the level of participation by Ulundi community in cultural tourism activities. These objectives were analysed on the basis of hypotheses, which were structured in such a way that they were equivalent or somewhat similar to the objectives. These hypotheses were intended to assist in asking questions and providing educated answers to the questions. The collection of data for this study was done through the use of the questionnaire, which had both open-ended and closed ended questions. It was therefore analysed through the use of computer programme, Statistical Package for Social Sciences. This programme was used to formulated frequency tables and graphs to reflect responses of the subjects interviewed. The main findings of the study revealed that there exists positive perception towards cultural tourism in the study area. The community also had a variety of expectations as cultural tourism has not brought any remarkable improvements in their area. It was again discovered that the community was aware of cultural tourism benefits. The only setback was that they have long been excluded from enjoying such benefits so they tend to be sceptical where there are no visible and tangible improvements. Although this community was aware of tourism benefits but they seemed to know very little about what is happening in the area, hence their minimal participation in local tourism and its activities. In order to address the raised concerns of the respondents, various recommendations were suggested. These included tourism awareness initiatives, easy access to finance by prospective entrepreneurs, community development programmes and adequate dissemination of cultural tourism information. It is without doubt that once the Ulundi community is constantly exposed and involved in tourism matters, they will begin to see and enjoy more benefits of this industry.
The development and promotion of a tourism delivery strategy at the Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve
(2008) Padayachee, Karthigasen Kisten; Magi, L.M.; Tsheola, J.P.
The study on die assessment of the development and promotion of a tourism delivery strategy, within the Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve and surrounding, was conducted against the background that, in spite of the fact that South Africa is blessed with accessible wildlife, varied and impressive scenery, unspoiled wilderness areas; the country has not yet been able to realise full tourism potential. The failure of South Africa to realise a tourism delivery strategy for the benefit of the community and stakeholders, was a strong motivation for carrying out this research investigation. The subsequent result of this limited contribution is that some tourist destinations attract more tourists while other destinations attract few tourists. Notwithstanding the existence of the democratic government elected in 1994, tourism development in South Africa still focuses on urban areas and areas along scenic natural environments. It is also a serious challenge that the tourism industry is still dominated by the white population sector. The involvement of local indigenous communities in tourism related activities in the study area is almost non-existent. The study therefore, had specific objectives which are the following: (a) To reveal the extent to which the stakeholders are aware of the importance of tourism in the study area. (b) To find out whether the activities and facilities in the study area are adequately provided and are of good quality. (c) To establish the degree to which stakeholders participate in tourism activities in the study area. (d) To determine whether the level of utilisation and patronage of various resource facilities in the study area are of low or high order. (e) To investigate the adequacy and effectiveness of tourism management practices for benefiting the local communities in the study area. (i) To ascertain the adequacy of perceived community benefits coming from tourism activities in the study area. A number of hypotheses directly related to the objectives of the study were postulated. The hypotheses were duly tested in an attempt to uncover the underlying causes of the identified discrepancies in the study area. The testing of the hypotheses was done through the analysis and interpretation of the data collected from the population sectors that are directly or indirectly affected by the study area. There were various findings that emerge and were deduced from the research data analysed. The findings showed that the respondents from the study area: (a) community members are relatively aware of tourism facilities and activities in the study area; (b) the facilities were inadequately provided and thought to be ill-equipped; (c) there was a moderate to fair participation practice in tourism activities, mainly based on race and economics, where Whites and Indians showed a high level of participation; (d) levels of utilisation and patronage of facilities were not of a high order, that is, community members found utilisation to be inadequate in the study area; (e) the tourism management practices in the study area were inadequate and ineffective for benefiting the local communities; and (f) the tourism benefits for the local communities were found to be inadequate in the study area, in other word, community benefits coming from tourism activities are inadequate in the study On the whole, the study conclusively established that there were evidently negative perceptions of provision, participation, utilisation, management practice and community related tourism benefits in the study area. These findings lend themselves to the need for the development and promotion of a tourism delivery strategy at the Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve. Finally, the research study concluded by providing recommendations, which sought to ameliorate the negative outcomes of the investigation. It was further suggested that the development and promotion of a tourism delivery strategy would depend on mutual co-operation between all stakeholders: the government, the tourists, the nature reserve officials, the private sector tour operators and the local communities.
The Development of Ecotourism in the Dukuduku Forest Reserve and Surrounding Settlements: Policy and Implementation
(2009) Ngema, Nokuthula Dephney; Magi, L.M.; Nzama, A.T.
The study was conducted with the view of investigating the development of ecotourism in the Dukuduku Forest Reserve and surroundings, with specific attention paid to policy and its implementation. In an effort to develop this natural environment, there has been much overuse and degradation of the natural forest reserve. What has also been implicit is that tourist visitation numbers at the Dukuduku Forest Reserve, could decrease, and these reduced numbers of tourists could affect the employment rate within the local community. Pursuant to these observations and problems, the researcher found it appealing and necessary to explore the attitudes and perceptions of the local communities towards the usage of the natural forest reserve in Dukuduku. This would be achieved by investigating the participation, practices, and patterns associated with the existing policies and their implementation in the the Dukuduku Forest Reserve environment. In an attempt to investigate the research problem, the following research objectives were formulated: (a) To find out the extent to which stakeholders understand the meaning and importance of ecotourism in and around the Dukuduku Forest Reserve. (b) To investigate the adequacy of the provision of nature-based tourism facilities for employment purposes in the study area. (c) To examine whether there is undue over-emphasis on the commercialisation of the natural resources in the study area. (d) To reveal the degree to which tourism stakeholders participate in ecotourism development initiatives in the study area. (e) To establish whether the ecotourism related policies and practices, existing in the study area are geared towards benefitting the local community. The above listed objectives were investigated using a methodology process that involved the collecting of data from the local community of Dukuduku and other stakeholders, by means of questionnaires. The data collected was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences [SPSS] computer programme, which led to acquiring research findings. The findings that emerged showed that among the majority of respondents there is a relatively good understanding of the meaning and importance of ecotourism as a human activity. Notwithstanding, the social involvement of local communities in activities of the Dukuduku Forest and Settlement Area, were seen as inadequate. The majority of stakeholders indicated that they perceived a substantial number of ecotourism resources or facilities as inadequate and not employment based. Regarding the upholding the policy of conservation in contrast to the commercialisation of ecotourism resources, the majority of respondents were in favour of upholding the policy of conservation of ecotourism resources. The respondents were also asked to reveal how they perceive local community participation in ecotourism activities, the majority of the respondents agreed that there was no beneficial participation in ecotourism activities in the study area. Finally it was established that respondents in the study area revealed that the existing ecotourism related policies and practices were not clear to them and that the policies were geared to benefit the local community. In this regard the majority of the local community and the service providers individually indicated that the existence of policy formulation and its beneficiation was poor in the study area. The study concludes by offering some recommendations associated with the objectives of the study listed above.
Ecotourism as a mechanism for local economic development in the communities adjacent to the Oribi Gorge nature reserve
(University of Zululand, 2019) Gumede, Thembinkosi Keith
Scholars and stakeholders involved in the tourism industry share a common view that ecotourism has demonstrated a great potential for attracting both international and local visitors. Consequently, ecotourism has been advocated as one of the most important pillars of the tourism industry mainly for conserving natural resources whilst boosting the socio-economies of the local communities. Review of literature indicates that most of the developed and developing countries use their scenic natural resources and distinct landscapes as tourism resources. However, the problem is that literature does not clearly state how ecotourism can be used as a mechanism for the development of local economies, especially in rural areas. Based on this literary background, the study sought to find out how ecotourism can be used as a mechanism for the development of local economies. The study was conducted at the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve and the adjacent communities under KwaNdwalane (Nsimbini) and KwaXolo Traditional Councils. A sample of 384 respondents comprised of the municipal official, community tourism organisation’s manager, Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve’s manager, community leaders, and community members of the study area was drawn from the population of 348 553 using convenience sampling technique. The sample size of 384 was based on the Research Advisors Spreadsheet [2006] at 95 percent level of confidence and 5 percent margin of error. Based on the chosen sampling technique, the sample comprised of the respondents who were accessible, knowledgeable about the issues related to the chosen topic, and willing to participate in the study. The study adopted a mixed methods design, which suggests that both quantitative and qualitative modes of research enquiry were used during the collection, analysis and interpretation of data. Survey questionnaires were used to collect data from the respondents through face-to-face surveys. The quantitative data were analysed with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software which enabled the study to carry out statistical tests to determine the relationships between independent and dependent variables. In this study, Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationships between dependent and independent vi variables using bi-variate correlation coefficient analysis. Crosstabulations were used to establish reciprocal relationships between bi-variate variables that were considered essential for testing the hypotheses. Chi-square tests were performed by the study to test the hypotheses. The qualitative data were analysed through content analysis where the researcher sifted the meanings embedded in the open-ended responses in order to establish the respondents’ in-depth understanding and/or own interpretation of the subject under investigation. During this process, the successive parts or common threads from the data were classified according to their categories in order to generate themes and/or sub-themes for the purpose of interpreting the results against the research questions. The study asserts that ecotourism is embedded and can be explained within a neoliberalism theory of development, where aspects of nature are packaged for tourism consumption and profit maximisation purposes. The study found that ecotourism contributes towards the local economic development of the study area through employment creation, capacity building, multiplier effect and revenue generation. The study established that ecotourism is not understood by the community members of the study area. The study found that ecotourism development towards the study area is influenced mainly by marketing strategies, proper infrastructure, and branding. The study also found that community members of the study area do not participate in ecotourism development activities. Based on these findings; stance of the selected theories on local community participation in ecotourism development activities; shortcomings of the reviewed model approaches of local community participation in ecotourism development activities; and findings of the literature on the limitations to community participation in ecotourism, a model for improving local community participation in ecotourism development activities in the study area was developed.
Entrepreneurial education and intention within the tourism industry: Youths in King Cetshwayo District Municipality
(2023) Mhlongo, Zinhle; Ezeuduji, Ikechukwu O. and Ntshangase, Sibusiso D.
Entrepreneurship education plays a crucial role in terms of enhancing entrepreneurial knowledge, skills and values for transforming societies. The aim of this study was to explore the influence of entrepreneurial education (ED) on entrepreneurial intention (EI) among youths in tourism-related and non-tourism related industries. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 400 purposively selected youths within the King Cetshwayo District Municipality (KCDM), KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa. The study employed two stages of data analysis. The first stage performed descriptive analysis and missing data analysis using IBM’s SPSS version 28. The second stage focused on construct validity and reliability testing, as well as the structural model (partial least squares - structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM)), which was tested using a multivariate analytical technique on SmartPLS software version 4.0.8.5. The study found that entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial passion (EP) both had a positive association with entrepreneurial intention; however, entrepreneurial meanings (EM) did not have a relationship with entrepreneurial intention for both tourism-related and non-tourism related industries. The results validate that a basic entrepreneurial education, focusing on the meanings of entrepreneurship, is not enough to influence EI among youths in KCDM. The results further reveal that gender, education level and family business experience among youths in KCDM did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference to EM, ED, EP and EI; however, certain entrepreneurial profiles (such as age group, starting own business in the future) and entrepreneurial attributes portrayed a positive correlation with EM, ED, EP and EI. The results suggest that there is an association between a variety of factors (such as entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial passion) and youths’ intention to start a business. The recommendations are offered to the King Cetshwayo District Municipality (KCDM) decision-makers (business support offices), the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), as well as Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) to encourage youth entrepreneurship. It is advised that, in the future, researchers conduct this study in other district municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal, and/or other provinces within South Africa, to develop a national model.
Environmental management plan as a tool for tourism development within
(University of Zululand, 2011) Mhlongo, Sabelo Khayelihle; Nzama, A.T.; Magi, L.M.
The study on the Environmental Management Plan as a tool for Tourism Development within uMkhanyakude District Municipality was conducted in consideration of tourism industry being the tourists' destination as well as the major source of income in the region. There are various factoid that contributed immensely toward the growth of tourism in the study area. This study has identified that Environmental Management Plan (BMP) as one of the factors that played a significant role in ensuring authenticity of natural environment which forms the basis for tourism development. The objectives of the study are an important component of this research because they paved the direction that this study followed. The objectives of the study were as follow: • Objective 1: To investigate the strategies used for protection and conservation of environment and natural resources for tourism development; • Objective 2: To find out if the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) serves as tool for tourism development; • Objective 3: To establish the status quo of tourism development within uMkhanyakude District Municipality; • Objective 4: To investigate the level of implementation of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) of uMkhanyakude District Municipality. Data were collected through the use of questionnaires which had both open and close ended questions. After the data were collected, it was analysed using SPSS. This programme was used to fomiulate frequency tables, graphs and related analysis. There were vanous findings that were deduced from the responses of the interviewees. The findings of the study depicted that strategies and methods for protection and conservation of environmental resources exist in the study area. The strategies linked the importance and value of environmental resources towards tourism development. It prevailed that the inhabitants of uMkhanyakude District Municipality value the nature and its role in providing tourism related opportunities as well as other benefits to the local people. There are organisations and departments that played a major role in ensuring that the environment remains the first priority in the operations of local communities. According to respondents' perceptions, organisations such as Reperial Reforestation, WWF, WESSA, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, DEAT, Water Affairs and Forestry have played a significant role in inculcating the essence of the environment in the local communities of the study area. The findings of the study led to several recommendations that would assist in enhancing the implementation of BMP. The proper implementation of BMP will positively influence tourism development and directly contribute to economic growth of the study area. Recommendations included the following: (a) that methods and strategies to protect and conserve the environment should be reinforced, (b) that stakeholders (including government, private sectors and community) should be involved in developing and implementing BMP in their local municipality, (c) that the EMP should be developed taking into cognizance both environmental and tourism issues, as these two aspects are assumed to be intertwined, (d) uMkhanyakude District Municipality should provide personnel that will monitor the implementation of the EMP in the local municipalities and finally (e) that tourism as a subject should be introduced and promoted in schools.
Evaluating marketing strategies in promoting rural horse racing for tourism development at Umzinyathi District Municipality
(University of Zululand, 2020) Mhlauli, Olwethu
This study evaluates the marketing strategies in promoting rural horse racing for tourism development uMzinyathi District Municipality, such as the Dundee July event as tourism development. Rural horse racing is a historic contemporary facet of tourism in many developing countries, hence the study looked at the Dundee July horse racing event as cultural-based tourism. The rural tourism development in the Umzinyathi District in Dundee is seen to be merely based on a wide range of natural potential. The fundamental purpose of this study was to explore and examine the effectiveness of the existing marketing strategies in developing and sustaining horse racing in the rural Dundee located in the uMzinyathi district municipality. The researcher was motivated to examine the marketing strategies of the Dundee July horse racing event for tourism development at uMzinyathi district municipality because the event is not receiving the widespread recognition it merits as a tourism event in terms of coverage. The horse racing event has become a popular traditional and cultural horse racing attraction in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa with one main goal to contribute to the growth of the economy and job creation. Research shows that tourism constitutes one of the largest industries, which contribute up to 6 trillion dollars to global economies annually (or 9% of global gross domestic product) while creating nearly 260 million jobs worldwide, either directly in the industry or in related sectors. Tourism events such as the Dundee July in South Africa is a complex industry, this is the result that it is a compilation of both event and various services offering, such as accommodation, transportation, dining, recreation, and travel for participants. All these services involve tourism experience for the participants in the horse racing event. At the end of the day, since these services are not offered by one provider who has control over them, it is said to be complex as services are provided by different people or organizations who might not communicate or act as a team with other providers. The adoption of effective marketing strategies is important. The study finds the marketing mix key foundation on which most modern marketing strategies and business activities are based. More so, it also discovered that an extended marketing mix is a tool used by businesses and Marketers to help determine a product or brand offering. vi The 4 Ps of marketing were seen to be associated with the Marketing Mix since their development in 1960 by Jerome McCarthy, which was later developed into 7Ps (“product, price, promotion, place, packaging, positioning, and people). Understanding the 7Ps of marketing known as the marketing mix is similar to the marketing strategy tools of 4Ps. As marketing is a “continually evolving discipline and as such can be one that organization and firm find themselves left very much behind the competition if they stand still for too long”. The motivational theory was adopted by the researcher to put things in the right perspective. A motive is a starting point that triggers the decision-making process of an individual (Crompton 2006). Therefore, in this case, motivation is a theoretical concept that denotes the driving force of human behaviour and explains why individuals choose one alternative instead of another. It is argued that socialization, leisure, and the development of new relationships are the factors that motivate individuals to attend events. It is therefore in the best interests of the event marketer to provide a satisfactory experience to its customers. This study adopted a mixed-method as the research methodology, the researcher explores the importance of marketing tourism events to promote tourism at the uMzinyathi municipality. The key objective of the study examined the marketing strategies used in promoting the Dundee July event, to establish an effective marketing strategy that can best promote the Dundee July event as a stand-alone event and put it on the tourist map of South Africa. Structured questionnaires were distributed as a means of collecting data with residents and visitors. In doing so the information collected assisted the researcher in exploring and examining the effectiveness of the existing marketing strategies in developing and sustaining rural horse racing in Dundee located at uMzinyathi district municipality (KZN), as a tourism event. The results revealed that organizing an event is a challenging task, thus requires serious effective marketing strategies to attract a greater number of spectators.
Feasibility study for an Umlazi tourist information centre
(1998) Tshabalala, Sibongile Princess.; Magi, L.M.
After the first democratic elections in South Africa in 1994, South Africa was heartily welcomed into the family of nations of the world. Likewise, South Africa should extend a warm welcome to peoples of the world to its shores. South Africa must take full advantage of its political popularity under the democratically elected government. Besides, South Africa has an abundance of natural resources and is rich in history because of its racial diversity. The cultures of its indigenous people of South Africa can make this region one of the most sought after tourist destinations of the world. Tourism, like all other industries in this country, has been badly affected by sanctions, violence, crime and internal political conflict. Furthermore, the media has created a turbulent atmosphere through its exaggeration of incidents that are common to all countries of the world. These have dissuaded thousands of people who would otherwise have chosen to visit South Africa especially the Black townships and rural areas. Tourism has, unfortunately, received little attention, from both the previous and the present governments compared to other industries. A number of projects and programmes have been directed at alleviating problems of Black communities with the ultimate aim of improving their standard of living. In most cases, these programmes have failed to achieve this objective. Instead, in tourism, it is the wealthy hoteliers who have been beneficiaries and not the target population. South Africa has engaged in a number of tourism forms with the objective of including and involving Blacks such that they benefit from tourism development. Presently very few Blacks have been properly involved in tourism in a positive way. This study focuses on establishing a Tourist Information Centre in Umlazi that will provide information concerning tourism that may be required by potential tourists. Tourism needs much more than providing information to tourists, it also needs that the infrastructure available should be of a suitable standard. The development of such infrastructure in Umlazi and neighbouring townships has lagged behind in the past because of the policies that were in operation. Tourist Information Centres will help develop a high level of awareness of the potential benefits available in Umlazi Township for both the tourists and the host communities. It has been found from the tourism workshop held in May 1998 to orientate the people of Umlazi in tourism. that tourism awareness campaign seems to be the only criterion that can be used to answer all the questions and challenges pertaining to tourism industry. The survey conducted re-iterated the need for tourism education and, also revealed that the majority of Umlazi community would love to see a Tourist Information Centre materialising. The opinion survey showed that the support from the community cannot be doubted.
Gender nuances in tourism business operations: a South African perspective
(University of Zululand, 2020) Nzama, Nompumelelo
Tourism is earmarked as the fastest growing industry, which opens opportunities for business development and growth. As a buoyant income-generating sector of any nation, many entrepreneurs have also keyed into tourism. Previous studies have shown that the number of women entrepreneurs is increasing, however, many of them fail to sustain their businesses compared to men who own businesses. This research therefore explored gender nuances in tourism business operation that may have a significant impact on business performance. The researcher used questionnaire survey, a quantitative research method to collect data from 150 tourism-related business owners and managers in Durban Central Business District, KwaZulu-Natal using purposive sampling method. The participants were those who have specific knowledge in tourism-related business operations (managers and owners) and are willing to participate. Data was analysed using IBM’s SPSS version 25 software. Descriptive (frequency, mean), bivariate (Spearman’s Rank Correlation (two-tailed) test, Pearson’s ChiSquare test, Mann-Whitney U test) and multivariate (Reliability test using Cronbach’s Alpha) data analyses were applied in this study. This study did not make a conclusive finding that gender or any other demographic characteristics play a very strong role in differentiating business success or performance, as mostly perceived. The conclusive finding in this study points to the strong role that developing marketing capability plays on business success irrespective of gender or any other demographic characteristics. This study, therefore, relabelled the initially proposed conceptual framework that guided this study as a "perceived" model of Gender nuances in tourism business operations. This study did not validate the initial model as the reality in the business world. There is a difference here between what people perceive and what takes place in reality. Some of the recommendations provided by this study are that there should be entrepreneurial networks that mainly focus on women entrepreneurs to create a women-friendly businessrelated network. In addition, the promotion of entrepreneurial workshops and training to enhance business management skills is suggested.
The impact and survival of bed and breakfast accommodation industry in the next millennium
(1998) Nhlabathi, Zandile Florence.; Magi, L.M.; Bayon, S.
The phenomenon of Bed and Breakfast accommodation is part of the tourism industry that is increasing almost in every city or town. The study examines: ♦ The role Bed and Breakfast accommodation has in tourism industry in Empangeni and Richards Bay. ♦ How do Bed and Breakfast proprietors conduct the business? ♦ Why Bed and Breakfast establishments are increasing in Empangeni and Richards Bay? ♦ What are the economic benefits and problems faced by Bed and Breakfast establishments? ♦ What is the future of Bed and Breakfast establishments? The study reveals that Bed and Breakfast market (in Empangeni and Richards Bay) is dominated by business people and holiday makers. The Bed and Breakfast market faces growing competition from other parallel segments within the industry such as transport, tour operation and travel agents. Findings reveal that Bed and Breakfast product is changing and extending its range of products by offering not only Bed and Breakfast but other services such as full service Bed and Breakfast and extended stay Bed and Breakfast. The results of the investigation emphasises that the viability of Bed and Breakfast accommodation should take into consideration factors such as right location, correct capacity and high level of utilisation. The study reveals that most Bed and Breakfast establishments are operated and managed by owners. Findings indicate that the workforce is usually not more than eight people and the term of operation is less than eight years in both towns. Findings reveal that some Bed and Breakfast have used their personal savings, bank loans and others joint venture to start the business. In conclusion, the study reflects that there is need for the industry to be regulated whereby schemes such as registration, classification and grading are applicable to Bed and Breakfast accommodation industry. The problems experienced presently in the Bed and Breakfast industry need the attention of all interested stakeholders no matter how big or small they are.

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