TOURISM AS A TOOL FOR THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISTIC AREAS OF RWANDA. CASE STUDY: MUSANZE DISTRICT (2015 - 2024)

Abstract

The general objective of this study was is to assess the impacts of the tourism on economic development of touristic areas of Rwanda. The specific objectives of study are: to identify the components within tourism, to examine the economic impacts of tourism in Musanze district and to find out how the local communities can have more direct economic benefits from tourism. The results show that all respondents have strong agree with the researcher that the components within tourism are Travel services/ tour operators, Transport (including airfares), Accommodation, Food and beverages, Visiting attractions, Recreation and leisure and Other services. The results show that the economic impacts of tourism in Musanze district are Revenue, Job Creation, Cultural Preservation, Infrastructure Development, Improved quality of Life, Job opportunities, Tourism is good for TOURISTIC AREAS, Tourism encourages conservation, Promoted local enterprises, Transport infrastructure improved, Improved the housing condition, Improved the agriculture activities, Increased local employment opportunities, Promoted local enterprises, Sustainable use of natural resources, improved market infrastructures and it helped to reduce poverty and inequality. The results show that the tourism enhancing Local People’s Earnings and Savings, access to Health Services, access to Education Services, food Security, access to Clean Water, source of Cooking Energy, possession of communication equipment, taming of Domestic Animals, Tourism contributed to the creation and growth of entrepreneurship activities, Tourism increased skill base and New facilities and infrastructure, Tourism increased employment opportunities, Tourism was a Chanel for Marketing Agricultural Produce, Tourism enhanced Local People’s Earnings and Savings, Tourism generated significant economic activity, creating jobs, and boosting local businesses, Tourism facilitated cultural exchange and fosters social connections., Tourism provided a platform for networking and collaboration among businesses and organizations, Tourism helped to promote tourism and boost local economies by attracting visitors from around the world, Tourism promoted education, research, and innovation, Tourism enhanced the quality of life for individuals and communities,