International Journal of Agricultural Economics and Extension

ISSN 2329-9797

International Journal of Agricultural Economics and Extension ISSN 2329-9797 Vol. 7 (6), pp. 001-004, June, 2019. © International Scholars Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Residents decision-making in tourism at Sitatunga’s swampy habitat: Saiwa National Park, Kenya

Ngeno Vincent*, Rop Wendi, Langat B., Korir M. K. and Kipsat M. J.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Resource Management, Moi University, P. O. Box 1125, Eldoret, Kenya.

Accepted 13 February, 2019

Abstract

The local community is one of the most important stakeholders in tourism development. Local people could participate in tourism through policy and planning process; benefits sharing or owning community projects. However, in most instances, private benefit of conservation to individuals, households and even entire community are not made clear or may be non-existent. This research examines the level of participation by communities around Saiwa Swamp National Park, created primarily for the protection of the rare Sitatunga antelope in Rift valley Kenya. Chi-square test, ANOVA, t-tests and correlations were performed in order to investigate, if there is a direct relationship between residents' participation variables and support for tourism. In general, there is a direct relationship between involvement in decision-making and support of tourism.

Key words: Tourism, residents’ participation, Saiwa, Kenya.