An analysis of tourism economic development in the Northern Province of Rwanda

Abstract

For many developing countries such as Rwanda, tourism has been viewed as one of the most lucrative industries to diversify the economy, create jobs and enhance the general welfare of people living in dire poverty. This research focused on tourism economic development in the Northern Province of Rwanda. This study also considered documentary and empirical research by examining existing literature. The survey used three types of questionnaires as the data collection method. Questionnaires considered views of tourists in the Northern Province of Rwanda; tourism business owners/managers in the Northern Province, and the Rwanda Development Board/Tourism and Conservation in the Northern Province. Data collected was presented, analysed and interpreted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 18 (SPSS). Findings revealed that tourism does contribute to economic development in the Northern Province. Results reveal that the number of tourists in the Northern Province is increasing; tourism businesses are also increasing thus creating jobs for local people. Rwanda Development Board/Tourism and Conservation in the Northern Province is involved in five projects that promoted job creation and improved the lives of local people in the province. Findings revealed that the Rwanda Development Board/Tourism and Conservation and tourism business employ 75% employees that are originally from the Northern Province. The study further suggests the diversification in tourism products and services, recommends the promotion of domestic tourism and the consumption of local products.