International Tourism and Local Economic Development in Kasese District, Uganda

ABSTRACT The study was prompted by the need to explore International Tourism and Local Economic Development in Kasese District, Uganda. The main objective of the research was to investigate the relationship between International tourism and Local economic development in Kasese District, Uganda. A sample of 120 households selected to participate in the study in nine villages of Kasese district. Data collected through structured questionnaires and target respondent was the household head. Out of 120 questionnaires administered, 114 questionnaires were returned completed, representing a response rate of 95 percent. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and correlation, which helped to explain the relationship between international tourism and local economic development. Findings of the research showed that international tourism had no significant effect on local economic development in Kasese. The researcher therefore concluded that even though tourism would possibly lead to local economic development that may not be realized unless there is proper infrastructure in place, such as good road network, sports facilities, catering services, hotels and accommodation services. The researcher therefore recommended that for Kasese district to be able to benefit from international tourism there is need to have in place adequate infrastructural and human resource facilities that would attract more tourists into the region.