Journal du tourisme et de l'hôtellerie
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Challenges of Community-Based-Ecotourism Development in Gorgora-Ethiopia

Getachew Melesse Asefa

Community-based ecotourism is used to describe a variety of activities that encourage and support a wide range of objectives in economic and social development and conservation. It became alternative means of income generations and off-farm activities to minimize degradations pressure on endangered environments in rural areas of Ethiopia, particularly Gorgora. The potentials of Gorgora area helps to prepare the community based eco-tourism development. The major objective of this research was to investigate major challenges for the development of community-based ecotourism in Gorgora. Both quantitative and qualitative data generated from these techniques are analyzed, and are used to complement each other. Gorgora is rich enough in ecotourism potential that contribute to attract eco-tourists, but deforestation, water pollution, soil erosion, overgrazing; limited infrastructures, and accommodation facilities and services are found as the major problem contributors to the degradations of natural and cultural resources of the area. However, Lake Tana and its wetland including endemic bird species for bird watching, water sports, monasteries and church used for religious ceremony, palace of Susenyos, Mussolini monument, and „Selassie�?? cave are located at shore of Lake Tana that used to attract tourists for historical tour and recreation. Thus, developing infrastructures, increasing awareness of the local communities, introducing and promoting community-based ecotourism are important strategic directions for sustainable development of cultural and natural resources for Gorgora local communities, which would be improved the livelihood of local communities.