Tourism Destination Governance In Afadzato South District Of Ghana

Abstract

Tourism destination governance is pivotal for managing diverse interests by involving multiple stakeholders. This study employs a qualitative single-case approach to evaluate tourism destination governance in the Afadzato South District. Data were collected from 21 participants, comprising 7 public and 14 private sector representatives, between April 20th and May 2, 2021, using thematic analysis. The study classifies actors into state and non-state actors. State actors primarily assume supervisory roles within a hierarchical structure, contributing to peace and stability. Non-state actors engage in resource identification, attraction development, and visitor management. The significance of Regulation L.I. 2393 is also examined. Collaboration among actors is categorized into four types, emphasizing the importance of collaboration both as individual units and as businesses. Power relations reveal legitimate power for state actors, land ownership for certain community members, and the power of traditional and cultural values in cultural preservation and conservation. The challenges in governance include stakeholder misunderstandings of tourism, weak and undefined structures, collaboration issues, inadequate road access, land disputes, environmental degradation, cultural preservation, and deficits in social capital. The study recommends that state actors adopt a more inclusive, bottom-up approach, reduce the use of excessive legislative powers, and strengthen collaborations. The community is encouraged to adhere to traditional and cultural values to preserve their unique culture and environmental resources to help distinguish the destination.