TOURISM AS AN INSTRUMENT FOR CONIMUNITY DEVELOPMENT A CASE STUDY OF THE MOLE NATIONAL PARK

Abstract

This thesis is the result of a study on tourism as an instrument for community development with specific reference to the Mole National Park. The study sought to explore the evidence of economic and social impacts of tourism on communities around the Mole National Park as well as strategies that can be taken to maximize the opportunities and benefits and minimize the threats of tourism to the local people. The study further sought to examine some of the dangers associated with living close to the Mole National Park and whether local community members are advantaged or disadvantaged to explore the economic potential of the game reserve. A case study approach was adopted. Qualitative data was collected by means of individual interviews, focus group discussions, and informal talks with key informants as well as through observation and document review. The local residents and Park employees were randomly selected, whilst opinion leaders and local officials were purposively sampled. The study revealed that the local communities around the Park derive some economic benefits from the Park. These benefits are in the form of training programmes, disbursement of micro credits and home stay aimed at improving upon the standard of living of the local people. The research also revealed that compensations are not paid to the local people whenever wild animals destroy their crops and other properties. The study further revealed that wild animals sometimes stray into their communities causing destruction to properties and killing animals and human beings. The study further revealed that all revenue generated from the Park is paid to the Central Government. The management of the Park should involve local communities in all issues of the park development. Management should in the long term emphasize the recruitment of a reasonable number of the local people as employees.