Faculty of Management Sciences

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Residents’ perceptions on the socio-cultural impacts of tourism and recreation activities on the Golden Mile of Durban
(2023) Mkhize, Sandile Mluleki; Hlengwa, Dumsile Cynthia
The study was designed to investigate the Residents perceptions on the socio-cultural impacts of tourism and recreation activities on the Golden Mile of Durban. This study is underpinned by Adaptive Level theory. Adaptation is the process of change by which individuals and communities become better suited to surroundings and circumstances. The AL theory holds that people and organizations can return to baseline level of operation following a destabilizing event and are able to meet standards of personal independence and social responsibilities. One of the objectives was to determine residents’ mechanisms of coping with bustling activities in the place that they call home. It is for this reason that the Adaptive Level theory was used to cement this study. The aim of the study was to determine the socio-cultural impacts of mass tourism and recreation activities on the residents of the Golden Mile of Durban. It was guided by research objectives, aiming to establish nature of tourism, verify socio-cultural visitor factors, establish feelings and attitudes of residents, to determine residents coping and resilience mechanism and lastly to make recommendations for strategies to enhance residents’ socio-cultural resilience. The study took form of a mixed method due to the nature of the research topic and due to the research questions, the study aimed to answer. A questionnaire is a tool that was used to collect data from the residents of the Mile. A total of 101 residents participated in the study. The results of the study suggested that residents or communities living in places where tourism and recreation activities take place suffer from the negative impacts associated with those activities taking place in the vicinity of their place. The study also revealed that residents have developed certain strategies that they use to cope with all the negative impact that suffer from. Tourism planners, local municipalities, together with communities can ensure that negative impacts are minimized, with positive impacts maximized when working together.
An evaluation into Nambiti Private Game Reserve as a tourism contributor towards socio-economic sustainable development of local communities
(2022) Dladla, Simphiwe Sandile Justice; Chili, Nsizwazikhona Simon
This study focuses on the contribution of the Nambiti Private Game Reserve as a tourism attraction towards improving the welfare of the local community of Cremin through a socio-economic sustainable development. The primary focus of tourism growth is to make the most of socio-economic gain amongst the neighboring communities. This is however not always the case as most rural communities adjacent to private game reserve, national parks and heritage sites are among the least developed communities in the Republic South Africa. it is, therefore, necessary for this study to examine and evaluate whether rural communities residing near private game reserves, heritage sites and national parks are benefiting socially and economically. The purpose of this study is to determine if Nambiti Private Game Reserve has an important responsibility in social and economic sustainable development of Cremin community. For purpose of this study, both qualitative and quantitative methods of research are applied in a form of a case study approach. The benefits of using a qualitative approach involve that of collecting more in-depth information from respondents which enables the researcher to examine respondent’s experience in detail through research tools such as the semi-structured interviews, whereas quantitative research generates statistics using large-scale survey research using tools such as questionnaires with closed-ended questions. The study was undertaken to examine the contribution of the Nambiti Private Game Reserve towards ensuring that the welfare of the Cremin community is improved socially and economically. This study was conducted in the Cremin region which had a total number of 21 households as of 2006 which than grew to 58 households with a population of 174 in 2016 (STASSA, 2011). The Cremin region falls under the uThukela District in Klipriver and is 25 kilometers from Ladysmith, Kwazulu-Natal. This study plays a key role in the exposition of the contribution of the Nambiti Private Game Reserve to emancipate the community while at the same time it reveals challenges that are faced by all the concerned stakeholders especially the Nambiti Private Game Reserve authorities to achieve the principles of sustainable development of the local community of Cremin.
An appraisal of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the tourism industry in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
(2020-05) Doncabe, Thembeka; Chetty, Gopalkrishna
The aim of the study is to assess current Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities employed across the tourism industry in Durban, with the primary objective of the study to examine the extent to which the tourism industry in Durban engages in CSR activities. CSR is an important part of sustainable development and should be merged with company values, described as comprising of human rights, monitoring, stakeholders’ rights and employee rights. In South Africa (SA), CSR has been evident for a number of years, with its nature and context shaped by apartheid. With tourism being part of the service industry, it is of great importance that these stakeholders are put at the forefront. Globalisation pressure and the increasing burden on governments to provide comprehensive social services has resulted in the need to better understand how organisations play a role in sharing these burdens. The city of Durban has an extensive tourism and hospitality industry that grows continuously annually and as such, industry players should initiate and participate in CSR programmes. Global changes with travellers and the industry are greatly influencing the implementation of CSR in Durban. Study findings are based on a sample of 96 respondents, with a response rate of 76 percent for the selfadministered questionnaire employed for data collection from 4-and 5-star accommodation establishments in Durban, as well as domestic airlines that service KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Results suggest the Durban tourism and hospitality industry is fairly involved in CSR, with a few exceptions. Nonetheless, many respondents indicated challenges they face in CSR initiative implementation, including the lack of assistance from organisations that drive tourism. They believe further training on CSR implementation and support would greatly influence levels of CSR implementation. The findings in this study reveal that environmental impact measures and or activities are at the forefront of CSR activities for both airlines and the hotel sector. Activities with the environmental impact measures include minimising energy consumption, such as using energy saving globes and solar panels, waste minimisation, waste recycling, and protection of the natural environment. Findings derived from the study will unveil more opportunity regarding CSR in Durban and will inform those organisations involved in tourism promotion and development to act accordingly in assisting industry participants.
A framework for the facilitation of community-based tourism in natural environments : a case of the Save Valley in Zimbabwe
(2019) Maruta, Albert Tavavarigwa; Hlengwa, Dumsile Cynthia
In Zimbabwe, because of the lack of a clear facilitation framework, very little effort has been made in recent years by tourism authorities in the country to make community-based tourism (CBT) part of the national tourism growth agenda. Yet globally, within the general tourism sector CBT is becoming increasingly relevant in LEDCs because it fosters poverty reduction and biodiversity conservation. Underpinned by the participation and power redistribution theory (Arnstein, 1969) this study aimed at developing a framework of collaboration and participation of all stakeholders for facilitating CBT in Save Valley as a strategy to reduce poverty in local communities while also promoting sustainable wildlife conservation. The study adopted mixed methods as a distinct research approach, which combines both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The research adopted a two-phase sequential exploratory research design, which involved the collection and analysis of qualitative data from in-depth interviews followed by the collection and analysis of quantitative data from questionnaire-based surveys. The research results showed greater preference for vegetable outgrowing by female household heads who, incidentally, were less educated and poorly resourced than male household heads who had a wider variety of preferences such as handicrafts and cultural performances, wildlife conservation, and accommodation SMMEs such homestays, lodges or bed and breakfast were the preferred CBT ventures. There was gender consensus in the composition of CBOs and duties. Critical challenges for prospective local CBT entrepreneurs according to education levels of participants included lack of economic variables such as market, capital or technology, and managerial and other requisite skills, human-animal conflict, and land invasions by peasants. The research results also demonstrated that through the poly-centric CBT facilitation framework, advanced as original contribution, CBOs in collaboration with powerful and highly resourced external facilitators would encourage the local community residents of Save Valley to gain legitimate bargaining power during decision making because the CBO would act as an organised power base in the community. The study recommends that outreach programmes that have long been contemplated as a way of transmitting tourism benefits from SVC to local community residents should be transformed into CBT projects to bring about community participation in tourism by adopting the polycentric CBT framework developed as original contribution of this study. This may be the only sure strategy for achieving the twin objectives of community participation and beneficiation while promoting wildlife conservation in Save Valley in Zimbabwe.
The nature and extent of sustainable water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe
(2021-01) Ushamba, Kudzai Norman; Sucheran, Reshma
International tourism has grown to become one of the largest economic sectors in the world. The growth of tourism is not merely taking place in the so-called developed economies, but also in developing economies. In Africa, the growth of tourism has led to the proliferation of many forms of accommodation and lodging facilities. With a significant number of African nations facing fresh-water problems, water stress has now become a challenge in most destinations. The accommodation sector of the tourism industry has been identified as one of the biggest consumers of water through its various activities and facilities. Tourism, a major fiscus contributor is crucial to the economy of Zimbabwe hence its sustainability is vital especially during this time when world is grappling climate change. The last two or more decades have witnessed the majority of Zimbabwean citizens facing fresh water supply problems, especially in cities and towns which are hotspots for tourism. This study examined the nature and extent of water management practices in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study examined the level of water use in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe, and the extent to which water conservation practices are currently being undertaken by this sector. The study further examined challenges facing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. A ‘mixed method’ research approach was used in this study. Questionnaires were administered to managers of 203 accommodation facilities in the country. Expert views were sort from key stakeholders whose organisations, regulations and policies affect the tourism industry. The study found that accommodation establishments in Zimbabwe have been reactive to climate change induced water stress and have been applying several water-conservation measures. The study also found that there is non-enforcement of regulations on government policies and lack of proper awareness as to the monetary benefits of practicing water conservation in the accommodation sector in Zimbabwe. The study concludes that without proper planning, communication, and enforcement of regulations large amounts of fresh water will continue to be wasted to the deprivation of communities.
E-procurement for destination management companies within the tourism industry in South Africa : digital era trends, challenges and responses
(2022-04) Berndt, Lucy; Mbali, Charlotte
The study attempted to identify digital era Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) that suppliers used, and the challenges, responses, and trends they generated for e-procurement in Destination Management Companies (DMCs). The objectives were to analyse e-procurement in DMCs, through suppliers using ICTs, whilst concentrating on the elements from the new economy through investigation and evaluation; to predict new phenomena in this ever-changing field; and lastly, assessing the challenges that DMCs experienced because of suppliers using ICTs, with possible solutions or recommendations for procurement. Qualitative methodologies were used in order to observe various ICTs in the Tourism Distribution Channel (TDC). The population consisted of eight suppliers, representing over 135 different products and services, each differing from one another in terms of regions they cover, representation, and size. Seven DMCs ranging in size, in various locations and operating or specialising in different markets were selected for the research. To accomplish the objectives, questionnaires, and telephonic discussions with Revenue Managers, Contract Managers or International Sales Managers were conducted. The methodology is based on internal validity as the researcher is close to reality, spending large amounts of time in the field and having collected multiple data and therefore the gaps have been reduced. Reliability of the study can be tested through triangulation as different sources have been used to build a coherent justification. The results show that there is still much to be done before the successful implementation of eprocurement.
Assessing successful land claims and the efficacy of co-management in protected areas
(International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS), 2020-12-24) Qwatekana, Zikho; Sibiya, Nozipho Prudence
The aim of this paper is to assess successful land claims as well as the efficacy of co-management in striking a balance between community land rights with the goals of conservation for tourism. The study adopted a qualitative approach, using a case of a successful land claim in the Tala Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal Province. A purposive sample was selected from the claimant community and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. The findings reflect that co-management may be a logical approach to involving local communities in the management of protected areas. However, as a model used to address land claims by reconciling the necessity of conservation for tourism purposes with land rights, its efficacy remains in doubt. This study thus concludes that unless there is a reassessment of the co-management model and the role of the government in providing post settlement support, the rights of successful claimants will not be realised. It is essential that the government recognizes that sufficient time, support, and resources are fundamental to the success of co-management projects.
An evaluation of community tourism organisations' role in small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) tourism development in the eThekwini region
(2021-10) Ntlangani, Bantubathi Sonnyboy; Govender, Ivan Gunass
Countries around the world benefitted from the positive spin-offs of growth in tourism. Support for small, medium and micro-enterprises (SMMEs), township tourisms’ operating in this sector could also be enhanced for local economic growth. Tourism SMME development could contribute to the fight against poverty, unemployment and inequality that are endemic in developing countries. The research addressed the three gaps that limits local economic development in local township communities. These includes: the unrealized potential knowledge of poverty alleviation through tourism SMME development by community tourism organizations in the local communities. Community - based tourism has globally been recognized as a strategy to alleviate poverty in local communities and add to countries’ Growth Domestic Products. The obstacles to tourism SMME growth is dearth of knowledge of tourism SMMEs, that includes addressing explicitly historically disadvantaged communities in South Africa. Growth of tourism SMMEs involves issues such as community empowerment, ownership, sustainability, social justice, independence within the tourism industry. South Africa followed an apartheid ideology that divided people through legislation according to race groupings of so - called Whites, Indians, Coloureds and Blacks, with the latter being denied the power to trade. Secondly, legislations enacted during this era prohibited black business from operating in the urban areas, which were exclusively set aside as the white trading corridor. This brought structural poverty to the semi - urban and rural communities, as they were in the periphery of mainstream tourism trade that was conducted in the cities with good infrastructure. Thirdly, tourism SMMEs are currently not performing to their maximum potential and need an enabling environment to grow. Lastly, governance and management issues that provides framework for resilient tourism destinations remain under - researched in the tourism literature. The research design implemented a quantitative methodology approach engaging purposive sampling technique for data collection of Community Tourism Organizations chairpersons and both executive and non-executive CTO members. The piloting of the research procedure was statistically tested to ensure validity and reliability beforehand the start of the study. The study was conducted through a cross-sectional design and a sample size of respondents for probability sampling and participants for non-probability sampling. The study was based on CTO chairpersons, executive and nonexecutive CTO members within eThekwini municipality. Method triangulation of data findings ensured a pragmatic and perceptive comprehension of the phenomena which was examined. The descriptive statistics’ revelation showed more than seventy percent of respondents agreed that tourism SMME capacity development would have a positive impact in alleviating the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality of opportunities they face in the periphery township areas of eThekwini municipality from the tourism, and added cruise ship tourism industry. This can be successful through equal CBT multistakeholder participation and government at local municipal level taking a leading empowering, enabling role. The study discussion focused on the multistakeholder tourism SMME capacity development conceptual engagement model, aligned to the participatory pro-poor dependency framework that presented a link between CTOs tourism development and local community poverty alleviation. The conceptual model was developed as a relevant vehicle to the research. This study aims to contribute to scholarship on CTOs development of tourism SMMEs in South Africa. The study hopes to find strategies to break obstacles to increase the growth of tourism Small Medium and Micro Enterprises.It also envisaged to find out how it can facilitate CTOs tourism SMME development to alleviate poverty, unemployment and inequality of opportunity in the tourism industry. After 1994, there were and still are attempts to redress the injustices of the past by including previously disadvantaged communities to be participants in the tourism industry sector. However, certain factors still impede the growth of tourism SMMEs in these communities. Some of these factors are start-up and operational costs, difficulties in accessing markets, lack of skills and managerial expertise, and a regulatory environment that often favours established businesses. Community Tourism Organizations (CTOs) The democratic South African government adopted legislations and policies to integrate previously disadvantaged population groups through developing tourism SMMEs and introduced community tourism organizations (CTOs). It was against this background that this study also evaluated the role of CTOs in developing tourism. A quantitative approach was employed, and the data was generated by means of selfadministered questionnaires and one session of pilot investigations with chairpersons and other CTO members. An SPSS version 22 analysis was used to analyze the data. The findings highlighted tourism SMMEs’ owned by the previously disadvantaged secutor lack the necessary skills to participate effectively in this sector. As a result, economic growth and poverty alleviation in local township communities is still an ongoing struggle. There was a case for encouraging the growth of more township tourism SMMEs with wide appeal to tourists of township products, that are unique to these communities. A more proactive, structured, interactive, community engagement approach was thus recommended for the economic empowerment of marginalized communities through ownership and control of tourism projects within tourism destinations. This strategy has a potential of generating much needed revenue to alleviate poverty and unemployment. The limiting factor is CTOs inadequate capacity to develop tourism SMMEs. The study advocated for multi - stakeholder engagement comprising of government, established private sector tourism businesses, educational institutions and community - based tourism organizations. These organizations could ideally be involved in planning, monitoring and evaluating tourism initiatives in communities on agreed - on time intervals. That way, any unforeseeable impediments would have identified, reviewed and redressed as they occur. This study proposes a model based on stakeholder participatory theory meant to assist tourism policy makers at local government level. This is a paradigm shift for poverty alleviation through tourism SMME development. This is particularly important at municipal level, which is a strategic point of service delivery to local communities. This is where a need is felt on integrating tourism in the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and local economic development (LED) planning to prioritize and increase tourism SMMEs to alleviate poverty and unemployment. This is a compelling case in the historically disadvantaged townships.
Vandalism of monuments and neglect : a concern for heritage tourism
(SERSC, 2021-12-14) Qwatekana, Zikho; Ndlovu, Thulile Promise; Zondi, Nkululeko Ephraim; Luthuli, Mthokozisi Sydney
The occurrence of vandalism in structures of historical and cultural value has been largely observed in urban environments. The destruction to these structures ultimately imposes challenges to historical and cultural tourism in particular. Local municipalities in urban cities are tasked with a responsibility of maintaining local infrastructure and essential services to support tourism activity. However, amongst the biggest constraints for local governments to meet these objectives is limited budgets, therefore leaving the cities with unpleasant aesthetics. This study determines the extent and forms of vandalism that exists in the city of Pietermaritzburg, South Africa and its implications to heritage tourism. The city is governed within the jurisdiction of Msunduzi Municipality housing many of South Africa’s heritage monuments that are integral to the city’s history, culture and multiplicity of tourism offerings. A review of online sources as well as visual and photographic methods were applied for data collection. The analysis revealed various forms of vandalism mainly concentrated in the central business district (CBD). These results suggest that residents are oblivious to the intrinsic and monetary value of historic monuments. The disjuncture between residents and monuments may be attributed to South Africa’s harrowing history of oppression as well as the lack of connection and sentimental value. On this basis, it is recommended that Msunduzi Municipality in collaboration with heritage agencies creates postcolonial monuments that are inclusive and transformational. In addition, it is suggested that aggressive educational initiatives are introduced on existing monuments.
Graduate employment in tourism and hospitality : attributes and challenges
(2021-09-29) Stemele, Lukhanyo; Sucheran, Reshma
The tourism sector is often promoted as a significant employment generator. However, critical questions are frequently posed in terms of the nature of tourism employment and the numerous challenges faced by employees in this sector. Despite many employment opportunities being occupied by graduates, the sector is known to have limited potential for employment growth and progression. It is also evident that tourism and hospitality graduates tend to have an inaccurate understanding and unrealistic employment expectations of the sector. This study therefore examines the employment traits and challenges of tourism and hospitality graduate employees. A quantitative research design was utilised for the study, and a structured online questionnaire was used to collect empirical data from 133 tourism and hospitality graduates. The graduates were selected from a University of Technology using a stratified random sampling technique. SPSS was used to analyse primary data and generate descriptive and inferential statistics. The key findings of the study revealed that most respondents were currently employed in the tourism and hospitality industry on a full-time basis, many of whom found employment immediately and easily after the completion of their studies. Compared to the tourism and hospitality sector, graduate employees earned higher incomes in other employment sectors. Moreover, it was evident that graduates employed in the tourism and hospitality sector were faced with far more challenges than those that were employed in other industry sectors

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