Case of Gimbo Woreda in Southern, Nations, Nationalities and Peaples Regional State

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Water Resource and Irrigation Management Thesis and Dissertations

2018-11-22 AMASSESSMENT ON ECOTOURISM POTENTIALS AND DEVELOPMENT IN KEFFA BIOSPHERE RESERVE: CASE OF GIMBO WOREDA IN SOUTHERN, NATIONS, NATIONALITIES AND PEAPLES REGIONAL STATE.

Sahile, Atinafu http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/9184 Downloaded from DSpace Repository, DSpace Institution's institutional repository

BAHIR DAR UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF AGRICUTLURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF FISHERY, WETLAND, AND WILDLIF MANAGEMENT WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND ECOTOURISM MANAGEMENT GRADGUATE PROGRAM

ASSESSMENT ON ECOTOURISM POTENTIALS AND DEVELOPMENT IN KEFFA BIOSPHERE RESERVE: CASE OF GIMBO WOREDA IN SOUTHERN NATIONS, NATIONALITIES AND PEAPLES REGIONAL STATE.

M.Sc. Thesis Research BY Atinafu Sahile

September, 2018 Bahir Dar

BAHIR DAR UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF AGRICUTLURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF FISHERY, WETLAND, AND WILDLIF MANAGEMENT WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND ECOTOURISM MANAGEMENT

AMASSESSMENT ON ECOTOURISM POTENTIALS AND DEVELOPMENT IN KEFFA BIOSPHERE RESERVE: CASE OF GIMBO WOREDA IN SOUTHERN, NATIONS, NATIONALITIES AND PEAPLES REGIONAL STATE.

M.Sc. Thesis By Atinafu Sahile Main Advisor: Eshetu Moges (PhD) Co-advisor: Gashaw Tilahun (PhD) SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE (M.Sc.) IN WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND ECOTOURISM MANAGEMENT

September, 2018 Bahir Dar

THESIS APPROVAL SHEET

As a member of the Board of Examiners of the Master of Sciences (M.Sc.) thesis open defense examination, we have read and evaluated this thesis prepared by Mr. Atinafu Sahile W/Silasie entitled “Assessment on Ecotourism Potentials and Development in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve in Gimbo Woreda in SNNPS.” We hereby certify that; the thesis is accepted for fulfilling the requirements for the award of the degree of Masters of Sciences (M.Sc.) in Wildlife conservation and Ecotourism management.

Board of Examiners

______

Name of External Examiner Signature Date

______

Name of Internal Examiner Signature Date

______

Name of Chairman Signature Date

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DECLARATION

This is to certify that this thesis entitled “Assessment on Ecotourism Potentials and Development in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve in Gimbo Woreda in SNNPS.” Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in “Wildlife conservation and Ecotourism management.” to the Graduate Program of College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Bahir Dar University by Mr. Atinafu Sahile W/silasie (ID. No. BDU0906281PR) is an authentic work carried out by him under our guidance. The matter embodied in this project work has not been submitted earlier for award of any degree or diploma to the best of our knowledge and belief.

Name of the Student

Atinafu Sahile

Signature & date ______

Name of the Supervisors

1) Eshetu Moges (PhD) (Main Supervisor)

Signature & date ______

2) Gashaw Tilahun (PhD) (Co-Supervisor)

Signature & date ______

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

First and foremost, I would like to honor and extend my sincere gratitude to my God, for providing me the opportunity to make my long term dream a reality and for being with me in every piece of life to accomplish may plan in every hour and minutes. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my major advisor Dr. Eshetu Moges for his valuable advice, insight and guidance starting from the inception of the research title up to the completion of overall thesis Work. I also thank the Bahrdar University College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Department of Wildlife and Ecotourism Management for giving me the opportunity to attend in this Program and support to do this research work. I am again thankful to my co- advisor, Dr. Gashaw Tilahun for his willingness to advise me as well as his valuable guidance and support in shaping my research work. Finally I thank all my family, friends, and classmates who supported me in different ways.

LISTS OF ACRONYMS/ABBREVIATION

DoFED Department of Finance and Economic Development FAO Food and Agricultural Organization FAS Foreign Agricultural Services GDP Gross Domestic Product IBC Institute of Biodiversity Conservation LUPO Land Use Planning of Oromia M.a.s.l Meter above sea level MCT Ministry of Culture and Tourism NABU Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union SNNPRS Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples of Regional State SPSS Statistical Package for Social Science SRMA Southern Region Meteorological Agency UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNWTO United Nation World Trade Organization WB World Bank WTO World Trade Organization

ABSTRACT

Ethiopia is rich with varied types of tourist attractions, which gives the country a great potential for cultural and educational tourism. This study has attempted to examine the ecotourism potentials and development in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve in Gimbo Woreda in Southern Nations Nationality and Peoples of Ethiopia. In this study three Kebeles Ufa, Shetta and Wushwush were selected as a principal locations for this study. The three Kebeles were selected purposefully, and the reason for selection was associated with availability of ecotourism potentials in relative distances, accessibility, and limitations of research cost. In line with this 218 sample respondents were selected for inquirers from three kebeles by using simple random sampling method. Qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques were employed to collect the required information on ecotourism potentials and development. Weighted Sum Method (WSM) tool was used among various tools of Multi-Criteria Decision Methods (MCDM) for assessing the tourism potential of the study sites. In addition questionnaire and key informant methods were used to assess the attitudes and perceptions of local community towards ecotourism potentials in the area. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and responses compared using the Chi - square test to understand the attitude of the respondents towards ecotourism resources and products Data collected were analyzed by using chi-square test to determine variation of awareness among the respondents. In addition, intra attribute scaling was used to know the level of potential ecotourism in the study area. Having these, nearly, 88% of respondents confirmed that there are high ecotourism potentials in the study area. Apart from this, the study site, Wushush has high attribute scaling on socio-cultural potential than others, while Shetta and Uffa have high attribute scaling on a forest and transport potentials, respectively. The existence of different wildlife in the study area, the presence of historical and cultural resources, the provision of different social service, and the suitability of the nature of environment is the best opportunity for ecotourism development. Finally, promoting and making further study is very important for digging out available ecotourism potentials for sustainable ecotourism development.

Keywords/Phrase: Biosphere reserve, ecotourism, ecotourism potential, ecotourism development, Multi-Criteria Decision Methods.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page THESIS APPROVAL SHEET ...... iii DECLARATION ...... iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...... v LISTS OF ACRONYMS/ABBREVIATION ...... vi ABSTRACT ...... vii TABLE OF CONTENT ...... viii LIST OF TABLES ...... x LIST OF FIGURES ...... xi LIST OF APPENDIX FIGURE ...... xii Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1. Background ...... 1 1.2. Statement of the problem ...... 2 1.3. Objectives ...... 3 1.3.1. General Objective ...... 4 1.3.2. Specific objectives ...... 4 1.4. Research Questions ...... 4 Chapter 2. LITERATURE REVIEW ...... 5 2.1. Tourism Potential and products for ecotourism development ...... 5 2.1.1. Tourism resources ...... 5 2.1.2. Potentials of ecotourism resources in Ethiopia ...... 9 2.1.3. Ecotourism Product ...... 10 2.1.4. Opportunities for Ecotourism Development in Ethiopia ...... 11 2.1.5. Physical facilities for ecotourism development ...... 12 2.1.6. Emergences and development of ecotourism ...... 15 2.1.7. Opportunities of Ecotourism ...... 15 2.1.8. Development of Ecotourism in Ethiopia ...... 17 Chapter 3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES ...... 19 3.1. Description of the Study Area ...... 19

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3.1.1. Location and Socioeconomic situation ...... 19 3.1.2. Biophysical characteristics ...... 20 3.2. Design of the Study ...... 22 3.2.2. Sampling design ...... 22 3.2.3. Sample size for general household questionnaire ...... 22 3.3. Data collection procedures ...... 23 3.3.1. Focus Group Discussion ...... 23 3.3.2. Questionnaire survey ...... 23 3.3.3. Interviews ...... 25 3.4. Data analysis ...... 25 Chapter4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ...... 27 4.1. Demographic and Socioeconomic Characteristics ...... 27 4.2 Awareness of the local community about the ecotourism resources ...... 29 4.3. Ecotourism resources and products in Gimbo Woreda .. Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.4. The opportunities for ecotourism development in Gimbo Woreda ...... 39 4.5. Perception and attitude of the respondents towards ecotourism Potentials ...... 41 Chapter 5. CONCLUSİON AND RECOMMENDATİONS ...... 43 5.1. Conclusion ...... 43 5.2. Recommendations...... 45 REFERENCES ...... 46 Appendix ...... 52

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Demographic characteristics of the respondents ...... 27 Table 2: Age category and educational level of sample respondents...... 28 Table 3: Local community response towards ecotourism potentials ...... 30 Table4: The attributes under socio-cultural, physical and environmental aspects in Wushwush...... 30 Table 5: The attributes under socio-cultural, physical, and environmental aspects Shetta ...... 34 Table6: The attributes under socio-cultural, physical and environmental aspects in Uffa...... 37 Table7: Attributes and their aggregated sums in selected study sites ...... 38 Table8: Perception and attitude of the respondents towardst ecotourism Potentials and development....……………………………………………...... 45 Table9: Response about changes in the provision of infrastructure ...... 46

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1:Types of tourism infrastructure ...... 14 Figure 2 :Components of tourism infrastructure ...... 15 Figure 4: The map of the Study area (Source: by the Author) ...... 19 Figure5: Mean Monthly Rainfall in mm of Gimbo ...... 21 Figure6: Mean Monthly Minimum, Average and Maximum Temperature in oC of the study area ...... 21 Figur7:The livelihood of the sample respondents on the study sites…………………………32 Figure8: Type of potential attributes ...... 39

LIST OF APPENDIX FIGURE

Figure 1: Wildlife’s in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve (Source: NABU Field guide, 2013)……. 53 Figure 2: Raba natural forest (Source: Field Photo by Atinafu, 2017)……………………. 54 Figure 3: Keja natural forest (Source: Field Photo by Atinafu, 2017)……………………...54 Figure 4: Gojeb/Godefoo Wetland (Source: NABUS Field guide2013)…………………... 55 Figure 5:Bird Watching tour in Alemgono wetland (Source: Field Photo by Atinafu, 2017)…………………………………………………………………………………………56 Figure 6: Rivers in Gimbo Woreda (Source: Field Photo by Atinafu, 2017)……………… 56 Figure7: Dadiben holly hot sprig (Source: NABUS Field guide 2013)……………………..57 Figure 8: Bongee shambetoo (Source: Bunoo Magazin 2011)……………………………...57 Figure 9: Historical House and compound of Allaamoo (Source: Bunoo Magazin2011)…. 58 Figure 10: Indigenous qoollee deejoo (ritual practice) and cultural resources (Source: Bunoo Magazin 2011)………………………………………………………………………………59 Figure 11: Accommodation and services near Gimbo Woreda (Source: Sigrum Lange)…. 59 Figure12: Cultural dishes in Gimbo (Source: Bunoo Magazin, 2011)……………………...60

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Chapter1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background

Tourism is internationally being known since 1950 (WTO, 2002). Currently, tourism is the largest and the fastest growing business, which contributes to a lot of new jobs in both urban and rural areas (Rannersmann, 2003). Because of increasing and fast growing of tourism, currently more than 650 million international tourist arrivals are recorded in the world, and it will be more than 1.6 billion by the year 2020 (Holden, 2003). Africa is the world’s poorest region, with almost fifty percent of its population living with less than $ 1 per day. However, much of its area is recognized by its huge potentials for tourism development (WTO, 2002).

Ecotourism can be described as purposeful travel to natural areas to understand the cultural and natural history of the environment, taking care not to alter the integrity of the ecosystem, and producing economic opportunities that make conservation of natural resources beneficial to local people (Khan, 1997). Ecotourism can bring about social benefits to a local community, and it also empowers and strengthens economic, social, and cultural aspects of the society (Scheyvens, 1999). Empowerment can be brought about by the capacity building and community development that support for sustainable ecotourism development (Stronza and Pêgas, 2008).

Ecotourism can also be able to help local communities’ or youths through the development of language or other skills for future employment, as a way to empower the community’s upcoming generation (Wearing and Larsen, 1996; Delmaro and Bursztyn, 2008). Apart from this, it can also help to revive the traditional culture and cultural pride of an area (Jamal and Stronza, 2008; Reimer and Walter, 2013). Ecotourism assigns a value to cultural traditions and offers that tourists’ effort to learn about the area’s culture has led to a revival of the traditional culture in the incentive to maintain and preserve them (Reimer and Walter, 2013). In general, ecotourism is seen as a viable option for self-sustaining tourism development and tools for sustainable long-term planning that is highly controlled if the necessary natural, cultural and human resources is available (Khan, 1997). In Ethiopia, ecotourism development has emerged as a sustainable form of tourism (Khan, 1

1997). In the Ethiopian context, where most of its rural people are still engaged in subsistence agriculture and living below poverty line, establishing links between tourism activity and poverty reduction as a strategic driver of per capital GDP growth (World Bank, 2006).

Ethiopia possesses numerous tourist attractions, varied in type and appealing to a wide range of interest. The attractions include historical, cultural, archaeological, anthropological, scenic, climatic, therapeutic, flora and fauna resources. Such a unique combination of attractions within a single country has no match on the African continent, or rarely anywhere else in the world (Martin, 2008).The most common tourist destination of the country could be nature based and human made sites such as Semien Mountains National Park, Rock-hewn Churches of Lalibela, Fassil Ghebbi, Lower Valley of the Omo, and Axum, Tiya, Lower Valley of the Awash and the fortified historical town of Harar Jugol (Berhanu, sintayew, 2003).

Recently, the cultural landscape of Konso and Meskel festival (the finding of the true cross) has been included as a world heritage by UNESCO. Ethiopia is extraordinarily rich with varied types of tourist attractions (ETC, 1995; Berhanu, sintayew,2003 and Briggs, 2003), which gives the country a great potential for cultural and educational tourism such as photo safaris, hunting safaris, bird watching, water sports, desert trekking, mountain camping, ecotourism, health tourism and conference tourism (Martin, 2008).Apart from these, the country is endowed with various ecotourism potentials such as the spectacular mountains, which are almost untouched by climbers, various lakes features of great for tourists; birds, wildlife, vegetation, colorful ethnic groups, historical churches and monasteries, unusual geological features, caves, local arts and artifacts of the country are among the major ecotourism resources (Henze, 2000).

1.2. Statement of the problem

As the world largest industry, tourism development strongly needs potential resources in the destination to lead in the sustainable way (UNWTO, 2013). No countries develop tourism without necessary facility and products that makes the difference in the destination (Dabour, 2003). Africa is the world’s poorest region, with almost fifty percent of its 2

population living with less than $ 1 per day; however, much of its area is recognized by its huge potentials for tourism development (WTO, 2002). Even though the continent is endowed with enormous of tourism potentials, there are inadequate facilities and services and infrastructure in many places, which hampers the full use of exploiting these potentials of tourism. Like many other developing countries, Ethiopia, greatly investing in sustainable form of tourism, ecotourism, as the potential and a reliable economic sector (Sefrin, 2012).

Due to the presence of tourism resources, the influx of tourists from every corner of the world to Ethiopia enabled to increase the growth and development of the tourism industry (Mitchell and Coles, 2009). In this regard, Kaffa Biosphere reserve endowed with various natural and cultural heritages, wildlife resources, and attractive geographical sites and many others. However, the tourism resources and product of the biosphere reserve, particularly in Gimbo Woreda were not deeply identified and promoted for the tourism development diversification (Sefrin, 2012). Moreover, tourism development policy of Ethiopia that enacted in 2009 aimed to develop the existing and new tourism attractions and products all over the country (MCT, 2009). Inline to this of this policy direction, the researchers mostly concentrated in the national parks that are easily accessible parks and well known parks like Semien Mountains, Awash, Bale Mountain, Abijata-Shala National Park and necessary national park for their research work (World Bank, 2006).

By studying the potential resources and the challenges with well-developed parks of the country, ecotourism established as the sustainable option in the tourism sector. Similarly, in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve most of the researchers did their study only on biodiversity and forest based potentials of the area. However, ecotourism potentials identification and development are untouched separately in the study site in addition ecotourism development were not fully recognized. Thus, based on these research gaps, the concern of this study is to identify the ecotourism potentials and development of the Kaffa Biosphere Reserve in different sites of Gimbo Woreda, in SNNPRS.

1.3. Objectives

1.3.1. General Objective

The general objective of this study is:

To assess ecotourism potentials and development in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve Area in Gimbo District in Southern Nations Nationality and Peoples of Ethiopia.

1.3.2. Specific objectives

The specific Objectives of the study are: to determine ecotourism resources and products for ecotourism development in the area. to assess the opportunities for ecotourism development in study District to identify existing physical facilities for tourism development in the study area. to evaluate the perception and attitudes of the local community towards ecotourism potentials and development in the area.

1.4. Research Questions

In this study, a lot of questions were raised to the respondents in order to foster brainstorming, and for this purpose the following research questions were managed. What are ecotourism resources and products for ecotourism development in Gimbo Woreda  What are the ecotourism opportunities of natural and cultural sites around the biosphere reserve? What are the existing physical facilities for tourism development within the biosphere reserve? What are the perception and attitudes of the local communities towards ecotourism potentials and

Chapter2. LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1. Tourism Potential and products for ecotourism development

2.1.1. Tourism resources

The economic definition of ‘resource’, resources in tourism may be defined as, all those means that can be beneficially utilized for the purpose of tourism in a given area (Pancic and Kombol, 2000). In addition to primary tourism resources, a resource base is also made up of other direct tourism resources (tourism and catering facilities, related facilities and services, staff, agencies, organization) and indirect tourism resources (preserved environment, geo-transportation position, municipal infrastructure, political stability (Kusen, 2002).

The basic classification of primary tourism resources which is not exhaustive is done according to specific criteria. The most common are being genetic origin, qualitatively and, multiplicity (Baud et al. 1997).In terms of genetics; resources are classified as natural and manmade, and in terms of quality, as direct or indirect (Bilen and Bucar, 2001). A qualitative classification is based on resource evaluation; evaluation is a procedure that determines the level to which a given area is suited to a defined facet of tourism, usage (Coccossis, 1997and Bognar, 2005).

Natural Tourism Resources Natural tourism resources consist of all natural elements and factors that possess a high degree of attractiveness and that reflect their geographical environment and can be valorised for tourism purposes (Djukic, 1999). According to their relevant features, these resources can be classified as geo-morphological, climate-based, hydrographical and bio- geographical, and as a protected natural heritage. This classification has been accepted in resource planning and management and in Croatian tourism.

Geo-morphological resources These consist of all phenomena and processes associated with the genesis, prevalence and contemporary dynamics of relief. As an independent natural factor, relief has a complex role because it preconditions the forms in which all other natural given conditions occur in 5

an area and the manner of their impact. It influences the qualitative characteristics of the surface and near-surface part of the rock complex, as well as the features of climate, soil, vegetation, drainage coefficient. Heights above sea level and various relief forms represent a complex tourist attraction. Heights are a natural component of space that can be artificially changed or created only in exceptional cases and at huge cost (unlike some other natural resources that can be substituted with artificial resources). Although valorisation is rarely based on a single natural element, it should be noted that plains are a spatial feature of monotonous tourism, while mountains are a feature of variable tourism (Blazevic and Knezevic, 2006). Mountains – relief elevations higher than 500 meters above sea level – are a spatially dominating resource. In recent times, winter mountain tourism has developed rapidly (previously, this was health tourism) and other branches of tourism to a lesser extent (mountaineering, rock climbing, paragliding, eco-tourism, speleology). In evaluating a mountain for tourism purposes, heights above sea level and terrain configuration must be taken into account, whereas the quality of an area intended for winter sports tourism is valuated using the so-called relief energy method. In essence, this method consists of determining the degree of deleveling on a given surface, that is, the difference in altitude between the highest and lowest usable points (THM, 2008). Geo-morphological phenomena These phenomena are caused by relatively vigorous tectonic activity and fault lines along which numerous thermo-mineral springs have formed (from the Greek thermos – warm and mineral is usually translated as chemical independence). Thermo-mineral waters commonly have a curative effect, and are used in therapeutic purposes or are bottled and sold. Karst represents a set of relief forms occurring in rocks subject to chemical erosion. As a geo- morphological resource, karst can be found in southern Europe, Latin America, and Carpathians and in China. Karst forms can be classified as superficial and underground forms. The largest superficial karst forms as karst fields and karst plateaus, which are generally a complex tourism resource. Pits and caves are underground karst forms. Caves have an inclination less than 45°; pits, greater than 45° (THM, 2008).

Climate resources The climate can be an enabling, as well as a constraining, factor in tourism development in certain regions. The bio-climate affects the stay of tourists in a given area, while the elements characteristic of individual types of climate impact on the development of selective forms of tourism. Obviously, some forms of tourism are less dependent upon the climate, because they take place indoors with air-conditioning. Temperature, wind, air humidity and sunrays affect our feeling of comfort. Hydrographic resources For tourism development, it is of primary importance to ensure water supply to tourists and to take into consideration the tactile (sensory/bathing) properties of seawater and the visual contact of tourists with various forms in which water occurs (THM, 2008).The tourism industry is a large consumer of fresh water used for different needs(THM, 2008). Bio-geographical resources The tourism economy is strategically focused on the natural cycles of healthy food production by restoring specific types of production (wine-growing, olive growing, animal husbandry suited to the special features of an area), as well as on providing protection to biologically vulnerable zones and communities (especially forest and meadow communities that have a preventive function, the sea coasts and highland regions). The multi-meaningful relationship of humans toward nature is the basis for developing the bio-geographical environment in a tourist region. This relationship has sometimes been given such attributes that have made plants or animals a part of a region’s identity. Primarily, flora has a physiological function, as it transforms carbon dioxide into oxygen through photosynthesis. Its aesthetic and curiosity values are related to the diversity of floral species and shapes, and its health-related value, to the evaporation of aromatic oils and other components. Tourist regions seek to enrich unvaried vegetation that is poor in plant species by creating parks with various types of plants. Park architecture seeks to match the features of a region’s landscape. Similar to flora, fauna can also be classified as domesticated animals and all other animals living freely in nature. In the offering, domestic animals include cattle, fowl and house pets, with special focus on fisheries and stud farms, as well as on indigenous breeds (Kusen, 2002). Domestic animals are a vital part of the tourist attraction base for developing rural tourism, and wild animals, for hunting and fishing, as well as for 7

photo hunting that is gaining in popularity. These paces for certain tourist activities are shrinking as numerous animal species have been completely wiped out or can be seen only in protected parks or nature parks (Kusen, 2002). Anthropogenic Tourism Resources Tourists who visit anthropogenic tourism resources usually have a higher educational and cultural value. According to their structural features, anthropogenic resources may be classified as cultural assets, ethno-social resources, artistic resources and environmental resources. Cultural assets The term cultural assets’ is the conceptual successor of the term cultural and historical heritage’. According to their static features and volume, cultural assets may be classified as immovable, movable, and intangible. Especially attractive are the cultural assets listed in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage. Cultural heritage in the UNESCO list must meet at least one of the criteria of the Convention on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Heritage: a cultural monument must be authentic, it must have a great impact on the culture and development of a specific period, it must be a unique example of a specific style, it must be linked to ideas and beliefs of universal importance, or it must be an example of the traditional way of life, characteristic of a given culture. Artistic resources Artistic resources are generally associated with aesthetics and creativity. Diverse forms of art have been created, based on numerous criteria. The conventional list of arts include six forms (music, drama, literature, painting, sculpture and architecture) to which three more have been added (cinematography, dance and comic strips/sequential art). Each of these macro forms can further be divided into art disciplines, genres, types and sub-types. For example, modern musical art is commonly classified into traditional, classical, jazz and rock music, and literature, into prose and poetry Tourists generally come into contact with works of art through cultural institutions such as museums, galleries, libraries, theatres and concert halls.

Ambient resources Ambient resources refer to architectural facilities the aim of which is to complement other tourist attractions in a destination. These architectural and ambient facilities encompass various areas of construction, the most important being hotels, industrial facilities, housing facilities, sacral and sports facilities, as well as traffic routes and horticulture. Geographical criteria ensure rational planning and the use of limited and exceptionally valuable space, as well as ambiental architecture that is congruent with its surroundings and serves to enhance the tourist experience and the overall valorisation of a destination’s space. This helps to ensure the controlled development of tourism and other supporting economic and noneconomic activities and branches.

2.1.2. Potentials of ecotourism resources in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is endowed with unique cultural heritages and attractive natural resources that attract tourists. The oblique, churches, castles, archeological sites, caves are some of cultural resources of Ethiopia. There are also a high diversity of plants and animals in Ethiopia. In addition, there are impressive features such as high mountains, rivers, and lakes in the country (MoCT, 2006). The favorable diversity of climate is the other factor what makes Ethiopia to attract tourists. Having Addis Ababa as the venue of seat for Africa Organization Unity and United Nation Economic, Commission for Africa is also another feature of attractions of tourists in Ethiopia (MoCT, 2006).

The country has several parks and reserves to shelter its flora and fauna which can be visited to sight see these animals and explore their natural heavens. Ecotourism represents an approach to tourism that emphasizes on environmental and cultural preservation. It highlights opportunities for tourists and other visitors to experience aspects of the country’s ecology and natural endowments as well as unique features of its archaeology, history and culture. Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local people (TIES, 2015).

2.1.3. Ecotourism Product

Product attributes The attributes of ecotourism products have been highlighted by many researchers in the past. (Boyd et al. 1995) identified naturalness, wildlife, cultural heritage, landscape and community as important ecotourism criteria based on the regional landscape that it is linked to. On the other hand, tourism’s strength which creates impact is linked with multiple dimensions, including economical and cultural (Dyere et al. 2007), social (Gursoy and Rutherford, 2004) and environmental dimensions (Yoon et al, 2001).Furthermore, most studies in ecotourism product attributes are based on aspects such as culture (Moulin, 1995), naturalness (Otto and Ritchie, 1996), sustainability (David, 2011), history (Nijkamp and Riganti, 2008) , and People (Wang et al, 2010) Natural environment Natural area of tourism represents a very wide category of the alternative forms of tourism (Puczko and Ratz, 2005). Tourism product does not only comprise the quality and productivity, but also the psychological environment, the subjective personal reaction and feelings experienced by consumers when consuming a service (Otto and Ritchie, 1996). Furthermore, the ability of a place to attract tourists depends primarily on its environmental quality (Ceballos andLascuráin, 1996), namely, its natural environment. It has been pointed by Kaltenbom and Bjerke (2002) that tourists visit a destination due to the want to experience and feel the truth of the environment provide these opportunities by bridging tourists with the natural environment in the rural areas. The psychological needs of the tourists to be in the natural environment provide a basis for the attribute. Historical According to Harrison (2002), heritage tourism is one of the most suitable forms of tourism for sustainable economic and social development in the remote regions. There are many positive reasons why historical heritage can be one of the ecotourism attributes. Heritage contributes to national and local community identity (Communities and Local Government,) (CLG, 2009) and at the same time creates jobs by providing leisure, creation and educational facilities (Nijkamp and Riganti, 2008). For different audiences, heritage poses different meanings depending on factors such as class, education, ethnicity and

lifestyle (Goulding, 1999; Apostolakis, 2003). Heritage, therefore, needs to be defined in terms of the people or stakeholders who are interpreting it, rather than in the abstract, divorced from the people and their cultural references, values, institutions and norms (O’Reilly, 2005). As a result, different aspects of the heritage “product” can appeal to different types of people (Sable and Kling, 2001; Harrison, 2002). Culture “culture is a critical aspect of mediating and articulating community need, as development is planned and takes shape, through the culture’s potential to empower and animate” Evans (2005). Moulin (1995) states that, cultural tourism is an opportunity for hosts and tourists alike to better know and understand the world by mirroring themselves and developing tastes and emotions That is rich with "place" experiences. In accord with this, cultural experience has been one of the values of ecotourism product through the deep involvement of the tourists with the host community at destination. Community The sense of community plays an important role in fostering community support for tourism development and enhancing its long-term sustainability as a broad basis for tourism development planning (Hall et al., 2005). Bopp et al. (2000) defines sense of community as “the quality of human relationship that makes it possible for people to live together in a healthy and sustainable way”. Thus, developing a sense of community enables people to feel connected and motivated and work together towards common goals. Sense of community can be seen as the capacity of the local people to participate in development activities (Cupples, 2005).

2.1.4. Opportunities for Ecotourism Development in Ethiopia

Abundance of Potential Tourism Resources Most of the researchers who conducted their study in different parts of Ethiopia revealed the existence of abundant cultural, historical and natural tourism resources as an opportunity to develop community based ecotourism development in Ethiopia (Ambelu et al, 2011).

Policy Environments It was also found that there are various policies in the country which support and create favorable conditions for ecotourism development as such. For instance, Eshetie, Wagnew (2012) states that ecotourism development is a priority in the Ethiopian Tourism Development Strategy and is also important in Ethiopia’s Plan for Accelerated and Sustained Development to End Poverty (PASDEP) which has laid some solid foundations by establishing relevant strategies and policies to address issues on the wise use of natural resources and an integrated approach for achieving rapid and sustainable growth to end poverty. In addition, the Federal and Regional Government Policy and commitment’s towards Infrastructure Development (Eshetie,Wagnew, 2012; Berhanu, kebede. 2013),the Environmental Policy of Ethiopia (Ayinalem,sintayew, 2013),Ethiopia’s anti-natalist population policy (Eshetie Wagnew, 2012) and the Investment policy of Ethiopia in the travel and tourism industry (Asfaw, 2014), are all stated as policy environments which could offer positive opportunities for developing effective community based ecotourism in Ethiopia.

2.1.5. Physical facilities for ecotourism development

Tourism infrastructure can be regarded as the physical elements that are designed and erected to cater for visitors. The strong relationship between tourism development and infrastructure has been theoretically established by a number of authors (Adebayo and Iweka, 2014). Tourism infrastructure includes ancillary and complementary facilities, equipment, systems, processes, and resources necessary for the functioning of every tourist destination. This primarily includes roads, railways, airports, and the like, which make a tourist destination accessible for tourists. In addition, infrastructure includes health care systems, services, and public services. Building on infrastructure, superstructure includes building facilities, which exist only because of tourism activities. Their main purpose is accommodation and meeting the needs and desires of tourists, in the form of hotels, campsites, restaurants, sports facilities, and the like (Popesku, 2011).

Tourism infrastructure is the basis of tourism development, as well as a base for utilization of destination resources. The importance of tourism infrastructure is reflected in the fact

that it can contribute to increasing the efficiency of production and distribution of tourism services, and, in some cases, such as remote destinations, even increase the supply of tourism services. For tourists to be able to reach some tourist destinations there should be the developed transport infrastructure, which is a precondition for consuming other tourism services of the destination itself. The arrival of tourists enhances the efficiency of human resources at the destination; tourists require certain services in order to feel better during their stay at the selected tourist destination (Popesku, 2011). In particular, there is an increase in the demand for infrastructure services in terms of water supply, waste disposal, communication and electricity supply, as the necessary elements for comfortable functioning of tourists at the selected destination. Infrastructure is defined as the provision of public safety, transportation services, medical systems, financial systems, education systems, and other services involved in the population’s, as well as in tourists’ demand (Ritchie, Crouch, 2005).

As a component of the regional tourism product, tourism infrastructure is of special importance for long-term tourism growth and the general progress of tourist destinations in providing the required services to tourists. Literature provides different views on the number and type of components representing tourism infrastructure. Thus, according to the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF, 2012), tourism infrastructure is the supply chain of transport, social and environmental infrastructure collaborating at a regional level to create an attractive tourism destination.

Transport infrastructure in this chain provides destination access to tourists from the international and domestic markets, and includes roads, airports, and railways. Social infrastructure relates to accommodation facilities in the form of rooms to accommodate tourists and other supporting physical structures for various kinds of activities and services that attract tourists. This infrastructure includes hotels, convention centers, stadiums, galleries, and other necessary facilities. Environmental infrastructure is a natural value, and refers to national parks, marine parks, and reserves, which visitors can tour (Figure1).

Environmental infrastructure Social infrastructure

Transport infrastructure

Source: Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF, 2012)

Figure 1 - Types of tourism infrastructure

In addition to above classification, literature often points to the classification of tourism infrastructure into four categories, namely: 1. Physical (Hotels, Motels, Restaurants, Transportation, Communication, Water, and Electricity); 2. Cultural (Culture, heritage, fairs and festivals, Local art and music, dress and dance, Language and food); 3.Service, (Banking facilities, Travel agencies, Insurance agencies, Tourist guides); 4. Governance, (Law and order machinery, Customs and immigration) (Figure 2).

Tourism

infrastructure

Physical Cultural, Culture, Service Governance

Hotels, heritage fairs and banking facilities Law and Restaurants Festivals Travel agencies order ,Transportation Local art and Insurance agencies machinery Communication , music dress and Tourist guides Customs and ,Water dance Language immigration

Electricity and food

Source: Raina; (A., Ecology, Wildlife and Tourism Development: Principles, Practices and Strategies, 2005. pp. 192).

Figure 2 - Components of tourism infrastructure

Today, enhancing the construction of tourism infrastructure concerns a large number of countries, wishing to achieve higher tourism results and its significant impact on economic development. Generating the effects of the overall development is conditioned by the way of managing the relationship between tourism infrastructure, tourism, and the local economy (Swyngedouw, 2000).

2.1.6. Emergences and development of ecotourism

According to Boo (1991), "ecotourism is a nature tourism that contributes to conservation, through generating funds for protected areas, creating employment opportunities for local communities, and offering environmental education. Furthermore, Boyd and Butler (1996) who considered it as " a responsible nature, travel experience, that contributes to the conservation of the ecosystem while respecting the integrity of host communities and, where possible, ensuring that activities are complementary, or at least compatible, with existing re-source-based uses present at the ecosystem (Boyd and Butler, 1996).Recently there has been a surge of interest in studying ecotourism and the attempts that have been made gained noticeable results. Jalani (2012) investigated the effects of ecotourism on livelihood generation and the influx of people, and examined the views of the local community on the impact of ecotourism and the importance of natural resource to the tourism industry in the Puerto Princes Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) which has been recently renowned as one of the new seven wonders of nature.

2.1.7. Opportunities of Ecotourism

Currently ecotourism is widely hailed tourism, and alternative (Schaller, 1998).It is also a means to be an instrument for rural economic development and environmental conservation (Anderson et al, 1996). (Figure1) illustrates that it is important in poverty reduction and natural resource management.

Figure3: the diagrammatic representation of ecotourism opportunities Environmental benefits Ecotourism is relatively less-polluting industry, which can enhance the conservation and promotion of natural and cultural heritages (Anderson et al., 1996). Moreover, ecotourism will foster responsible tourist behavior, conservation of important wildlife habitats and ecosystem. It is a best alternative activity to environmentally damaging activities like farming, logging and mining. Although ecotourism may not be able to preserve these untouched areas as they would if human contact could be prohibited, it can help to protect them from the dangers of destructive agricultural practice, mining and industrialization (Dasenbrok, 2002).It encourages individual conservation efforts- informed tour guides and educational pamphlets can incite tourists to become environmentalists, thereby promoting conservation efforts. It also able to foster small scale infrastructure and the infrastructure demands of the ecotourism industry, primarily include the construction of small scale hotels and transportation systems, thereby maintaining a healthy balance between expanding tourism industry and protecting natural resources. Social benefits

Apart from its economic and environmental benefits, ecotourism might contribute socially by enhancing local community esteem and provides the opportunity for greater understanding and communication among people of diverse background (Agrusa and

Guidry, 1999). It also helps for political empowerment of local communities and fosters respect for different cultures (helps to develop tolerance). It is an important vehicle for promoting cultural exchanges (Agrusa and Guidry, 1999).

Although tourism has a significant contribution to economic development and conservation of environmental resources; it has also negative impacts on tourist destination areas. Especially during the past decades because of the interest of business profit of the tour operators to attract more tourists, which is resulted in high negative impacts of tourist destinations, principle of nature-based tourism or ecotourism was not considered. The negative impacts were seen like degraded vegetation, wildlife casualties, pollution of water and atmosphere in tourists ‘destination areas. Consequently, in the 1990s, the attentions for environmental issues in tourist destination areas were increased and ecotourism to be pronounced (Sindiga, 1999). Ecotourism was given more concerns since the world Ecotourism Summit in 2002 because it is expected as a tool for ensuring sustainable conservation of destination areas, satisfying the enjoyment of tourists, benefiting the destination community and contributes to poverty reduction (Theodor’s Atlabachew, 2004). Ecotourism evolved from growing concerns about the negative environmental and socioeconomic effects of tourism development (EGA, 2008).It is “environmentally responsible travel and visitation to relatively undisturbed natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (including any accompanying cultural features both past and present), that promotes conservation, has low visitor impact and provides for beneficially active socioeconomic involvement of local populations” (IUCN, 1996).

2.1.8. Development of Ecotourism in Ethiopia

The concept of ecotourism is a new phenomenon to and it is difficult to explain its significance achievement since the approach of ecotourism is not widely disseminated in Ethiopia (Theodros Atlabachew, 2004). The government of Ethiopia also has recognized development and promotion of ecotourism and provided consultancy services for a number of potential developers of ecotourism sites. Although, developers and policy makers do not properly take the idea of ecotourism, some investors started to involve in the development of ecotourism in different regions of Ethiopia. Bishangari Eco-Lodge located in the east of

Langano Lake in Oromia Region and Village Ethiopia located in Afar Region (Bilen) is examples of these private ecotourism developments in Ethiopia (Theodros Atlabachew, 2004). In the past few years, LUPO(Land Use Planning of Oromia) aimed to create alternative income generating means such as ecotourism to reduce the pressure on the natural resources of land through conducting a pre-feasibility study of proposed areas on the potentials of ecotourism (Scwenk, 2002)

Chapter3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES

3.1. Description of the Study Area

3.1.1. Location and Socioeconomic situation

Geographically the study area is located between 70 20’ to 70 40’ N latitude and 350 48’ to 360 14’ E longitude. Gimbo Woreda is bordered by Oromia Region in the north, Decha Woreda in the south, Chena and Gewata Woredas in the west and Adiyo Woreda in the east. It is 436 and 706km far from Addis Ababa and Hawassa, respectively (Figure 4).

Figure 4: The map of the Study area (Source: by the Author)

The area includes an array of rural settlements, traditional land-use patterns and sites of cultural and natural significance. Main economic activities in the area were dominated by agriculture and other sectors include services and tourism, manufacturing and trade.

Agriculture forms the backbone of the economy with most of the other sectors being dependent on its strong backward and forward linkages. The key management areas of the biosphere reserve include ; coordination of conservation initiatives with the focus on the protection of the endemic and globally important genetic resources of coffee Arabica and its associated ecosystems , provision of a sustained flow of high-quality water to adjoining regions and the promotion of sustainable development in order to alleviate poverty and inequality.

3.1.2. Biophysical characteristics

Topography The Kaffa Biosphere Reserve has an extremely diverse topography ranging from 1020 m.a.s.l to 3350 m.a.s.l with its lowest point eastwards of Gojeb and its highest mountain range south of Kaka (Angiyo Kolla mountain range). The latitudinal variation results in extreme slope gradients, ranging from the flat lowlands (south of Konda in the Gojeb wetland) to extremely steep areas. Of the total Biosphere spatial extent, around 1.2 percent (8,360 ha) is very steep terrain. Most of the steep terrain was covered by tropical mountain moist forest (Whitmore, 1993) and plantations (80%). But 12% of this Landscape was also covered by agriculture. All other steep areas were Savannah or covered by bush land. Soil According to the major landform map of Ethiopia by (Merla et al.1979), the Kaffa Biosphere Reserve in Gimbo is not influenced by distinct tectonic escarpments nor dominated by volcanoes, canyons or faults (Abbate et al. 2015). Kaffa region is structured mainly by pliocene acidic domes and plugs in the north of Bonga with traversal tectonic lines constitute a prominent and peculiar feature of the southern Ethiopian plateau. According to their relationships with the surrounding vulcanite, they are doubtfully assigned to the pliocene (Merla et al. 1979). The soil types of Kaffa Biosphere Reserve are eutric nit sols and eutric cambisols (FAO, 2014).

Climate The study area receives rainfall almost all the year round. From March to September the mean minimum rainfall received was 100mm. The mean monthly rainfall in mm as observed in Bonga station is shown in figure 5.

Source: SRMA Figure5: Mean monthly rainfall of Gumbo Woreda (mm) Temperature The mean monthly temperature ranges between 18 – 21 oC. From January to March the difference between mean minimum and mean maximum temperature recorded increasing, but gradually lower in April. The mean monthly Minimum, Average and Maximum Temperature, as observed in Wushwush station is presented in figure 6.

Source: SRMA

Figure 6: Mean Monthly Minimum, Average and Maximum Temperature in oC of the study area.

3.2. Design of the Study

3.2.2. Sampling design

The biosphere reserve includes: Adiyo, Bita, Chena, Cheta, Decha, Gesha, Gewata, Gimbo, and Bonga town. Gimbo Woreda was selected purposively and from this Woreda three Kebeles such as Uffa, Wushwush, and Shetta were selected purposively based on their potentials. Potentials were identified using field site observation and secondary information. Simple random sampling was used to select respondents for interviews and questionnaires.

3.2.3. Sample size for household questionnaire

The total number of household head in this woreda is 18,224. From this figure the researcher used 10% of HH heads to get constant sample to determine the number of individual head of household from each sample Kebele. The constant sample size for HH

interview was determined based on Cocharan (1977) equation ( = ) Where n= required sample size (when population is >10,000) Z = 95% confidence limit (=1.96) P = proportion of the population to be included in the sample which is 10% (0.1) of the population q = 1-P = 1-0.1 (= 0.9)

(.)∗.∗. d = margin of error (= 5% = 0.05) = (.) n = 3.842*0.1 * 0.9 / 0.0025 = 0.346 / 0.0025 = 0.35/0.0025 = n = 140

The total number of HH from each three sampled kebele was, 536 in Uffa, 622 in Wushwush and 689 in Shetta, respectively. The sample size was determined from each kebele using probability proportional to size (PPS) method to make equal representation of HH in each Kebele based on Israel (1992) ni = . ∑ 22

n1= 536*140/1847=41

n2= 622*140/1847=47 n2=689*140/1847=52

nT =140

Where n = determined constant sample size the researcher used to determine the number of respondents from each kebele, ni = Sample households of the ith kebele, and Ni = total households of each ith kebele , ∑ N =total HH heads of three sampled kebeles. Based on this a total of 140 sample household heads were interviewed from the selected kebeles and for each kebele the number of sample household head was 41 from uffa,47 from Wushwush, and 52 from shetta respectively.

3.3. Data collection Methods

3.3.1. Focus Group Discussion

A focus group discussion was conducted with 10 respondents (5 men and 5 women) from each selected kebele with their varied ages, who had lived in the study area for more than 10 years. The discussion enabled members to freely speak on issues about ecotourism potentials and development.

3.3.2. Questionnaire survey

The questionnaires were administered to the local people living adjacent to the biosphere reserve in the three sampled kebeles. The questionnaires had both open and closed ended questions. Open-ended questions solicited responses from the respondents on various issues under study. They also enabled respondents to give their varied views based on their experiences and thoughts. On the other hand, close-ended questions were used to solicit responses based on the Likert- scale. The respondents were asked to respond to each of the statements given by choosing answers based on the five point likert scale. Use of this scale was deemed appropriate since it assigned a scale value to each of the five responses and this assisted in yielding total scores for each respondent, which measured the respondent’s favorableness towards a given point of view.

For assessing the tourism potential of the study sites Weighted Sum Method (WSM) tool was selected among various tools of Multi-Criteria Decision Methods (MCDM). Four steps as explained below were performed following the methodology of Mamun and Mitra (2012).

Step 1: Level-1 Attributes and Weight (Wi) Assignment Three broad aspects namely physical, socio-cultural and environmental aspects have been considered as level-1 attributes for assessing tourism potential. The assignment of weights was worked through expert opinion survey. So, three different weights were considered in the first stage (Wp for physical, Ws for socio-cultural and We for environmental). Step 2: Level-2 Attributes and Weight (wj) Assignment Each aspect of level-1 has a set of variables considered as level-2 attributes. These sets are explained here under. 1) Physical (Wp) aspects include landscape features, Transport infrastructure (road), Banking service, Telecom service, Electricity service, Accommodation service, Caves, and Natural hot spring were level-2 physical attributes 2) Socio-cultural (Ws) Traditional handcrafts, Religious sites, Cultural songs of the ritual, Traditional New Year festivals Indigenous ritual practice, Cultural dances, Cultural food making ,Traditional building, cultural dressing, New Year festivals and Religious sites were level-2 socio-cultural attributes 3) Environmental (We) aspects are probability of Site’s suitability, Air and water quality, Beautiful scenery ,Openness of the landscape view, Existence of flora and fauna. Every respondent is asked to rank the attributes (1, 2, 3 …n) Step 3: Intra-Attribute Scaling

Level of quality or service for each attribute may not be similar for all the sites. Depending upon variations in quality/quantity, each attribute is scaled in a 5-point scaling. For scaling, 1 refers to the worst/weakest quality and 5 indicate the best/strongest quality. For computation, the lowest value is considered as 0.20 followed by 0.40, 0.60, 0.80 and the highest being 1.

Step 4: Computation of Aggregate Potential Value 24

Total Potential (V) = Potential Value for Physical Aspects (Vp) + Potential Value for Socio cultural Aspects (Vs) + Potential Value for Environmental Aspects (Ve)

Respondents from selected kebeles suggested their ranking on physical, socio-cultural and environmental aspects as prescribed. As per opinion, weights (Wi) for physical, socio- cultural and environmental aspects had been considered as 0.40, 0.40 and 0.20, respectively. The attributes under socio-cultural, physical and environmental aspects were selected from a list through opinion surveys.

3.3.3. Interviews

Face to face interviews were held with key respondents guided by questions. Interviews were used because they involved direct contact between the interviewees and the interviewer and hence led to freedom and flexibility in terms of questions asked and answers given. Structured interviews, enhanced flexibility in asking questions and changing the sequence of questions asked. Interviews were held with the Gimbo District Culture and Tourism management Staff, and the NABU Managerial Experts. The structured interviews essentially used a set of predetermined questions which required highly standardized techniques of recording and facilitated in the generation of the required information by the interviewer. Structured interviews followed a rigid laid down procedure, asking questions in a form and order prescribed in the interview schedule.

3.4. Data analysis

Descriptive statistics was used to analyze responses to the questionnaires and interviews to come up with results and discussions. Data obtained from different sources were processed, presented and interpreted by using appropriate statistical tools, tables, graphs, charts and pictorial devices. All the statistical data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 23 and excel spreadsheet 2016. Map was prepared by using Arc Map 10.1 The qualitative data were analyzed by organizing the data firstly in the data sheet by matching patterns in a way that suited the study objectives and then proper improving to remove unwanted data.

Data collected through questionnaires such as age, sex and educational status of the respondent was coded, analyzed and relationships between variables were derived using cross-tabulation. Results are presented using tables, graphs and qualitative statements and descriptions. Descriptive statistics were used to determine frequencies and percentages while inferential statistical analysis using the chi-square test was used to determine significance variation of age, educational level, and awareness among the respondents.

Chapter4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This chapter deals with the major findings of the study mainly ecotourism resources (both natural and cultural) of the Kaffa Biosphere Reserve in Gimbo Woreda; the existing physical facilities, perception and attitude of the local communities towards ecotourism potentials and development.

4.1. Demographic and Socioeconomic Characteristics

The sex composition is related to the perception of the respondents on ecotourism potentials and development due to the fact that male and female respondents may have different perception and attitude. The study included both female and male respondents with random selection. Out of 140 respondents selected from the study population, 72.1% were males, and 27.9% were females (Table1).

Table 1: Demographic Characteristics of the respondents Selected Kebeles No of households No of respondents Total M F Wushwush 622 30 11 41 Shetta 689 35 12 47 Uffa 536 36 16 52 Total 1847 101 39 140

It is obvious that the age of the respondent is related to perception and attitude. So that, the age categories of respondent were divided into four categories by 15 year interval, Majority of the respondents (57.9%) were aged between 31 and 45 years while those 15-30, 46-60 and above 60 years comprised (42.21 %) of the total respondents (Table2). The age of the respondents was varied significantly (χ2 =91.257, df =3, p<0.001). Education is strongly related with the perception of the household due to the fact that educated and uneducated respondents do not have similar perception. Interims of education, data on the education of the respondents demonstrated that about 16.4% are illiterate; whereas about 60% had attended traditional school, and 17.9% primary school. The remaining 5.7% percent goes to 27

those who had attained the secondary school and above (Table2). The level of education varies significantly by χ2=96.400, df =3 and, p <0.05 each age class interval.

Table 2: Age category and educational level of sample respondents

Age of Literacy Level of household Total Household Illiterate Able to Read Primary Secondary School School and above 15-30 3 17 10 2 32 31-45 12 53 11 5 81 46-60 6 11 4 1 22 >60 2 3 0 0 5 Total 23 84 25 8 140

In Kaffa Biosphere Reserve peoples were engaged in different activities to fulfill their livelihood demands. Due to divergence of environmental and social factors their livelihood is mainly dependent on animal husbandry, farming, handcrafts and off-farming. Among the community engaged in different activities in Gimbo Woreda, (41.4%) of the respondents were engaged in animal husbandry, (37.1%) was engaged in farming or crop production,(15.7%) were engaged in cultural handcraft activities, and the rest (5.7%) were engaged in off-farming activities to support their livelihood (Fig3). The livelihood of the respondents varied significantly by (χ2=49.029 with df =3 and p<0.05) between sample respondents participated in the study area.

Possibilities of some alternatives or off-farming activities create diversified livelihoods. Most of the respondents responded that the local communities were engaged in providing animal transportations, guiding visitors whereas others were engaged in providing local foods and drinks. Recreational Services such as cultural songs during New Year holidays and others prepare handicrafts like handmade hats wearing cloths during rainfall, traditional handmade Bamboo caps and coffee preparation tools like ‘‘Jebena’’ in Amharic.

In Figure 7, Study site Wushush have shown that larger proportion of respondents were engaged in animal husbandry and farming activities while the least proportion of respondents were engaged in handcraft. Similarly, in Shetta majority of respondents were engaged in animal husbandry, while the least proportion of respondents were engaged in off-farm.

Farming

Animal hasbandary Handcraft

250 Off-farming 200 150

t 100 50 Coun 0 Wushwush Shetta Uffa Total Study Sites

Figure 7: The livelihood of the sample respondents on the study sites

4.2 Awareness of the local community about the ecotourism resources

From table 3, nearly 82.3% % of the respondents replied that the natural tourism resources were the most abundant one in the area. But part of the respondents also replied that there were historical and cultural resources in study area that could have high power of attraction both the local and international visitors.

The level of awareness about the presence of the natural tourism resources in the area varies among respondents who have said yes or no showed a significant variation (χ2 =60.457, df =1 p=0.00<0.05). Moreover, the awareness of the respondents were also 2 showed a statistically significant variation (χ =83.314, df =1 p=0.00<0.05) for the presence 29

of cultural and historical tourism resources in the area. Furthermore, the proportion of respondents were also showed a significant difference (χ2 =96.114, df =1 p=0.00<0.05) on the perception whether the biosphere can serve to enjoy people or not (Table 3).

Table 3: Local community response towards ecotourism potentials

Awareness Questions Response Frequency (%) χ2 , df ,p Are there natural tourism Yes 116 82.3 χ 2=60.457 resources in locality that can no 24 17.7 attract visitors? df=1,p<0.05 Is there cultural and historical yes 124 88.5 χ 2=83.314 tourism resources? no 16 11.5 df=1,p<0.05 Are you interested in yes 125 89.2 χ 2=86.429 ecotourism activities or no 15 10.8 diversified livelihoods? df=1,p<0.05 Are there historical caves or yes 124 88.5 χ 2=83.314 heritages in this Biosphere no 16 11.5 reserve? df=1,p<0.05 Is there guesthouse? yes 134 96 χ 2=117.029 no 6 4 df=1,p<0.05 Is there any place that makes yes 128 91.4 χ 2=96.114 the people to enjoy in this no 12 8.6 Biosphere reserve? df=1,p<0.05

4.3. Ecotourism resources and products in Gimbo Woreda

In table 4, socio-cultural attribute in Wushush showed that the traditional handcraft has high scale of value which is 0.8 while defense site as an attribute has lowest scale value. It indicated that in this study site (Wushush), traditional hand-craft has high potential to attract tourists and this scocio-cultural attributes had a significant impact in tourism activities in area. While defense site has lowest potential to attract tourist this might be due its nature of attractiveness for visitors. In line with this, among the physical attributes in Wushush transport infrastructure or road has high scale of values, 1.2. This showed that the area was wonderful in infrastructure mainly in rods. Regarding to this, information from Gimbo Woreda Culture and Tourism expert showed that there was full coverage of ethio-

telecom network that could be accessible for visitors to communicate from every corner of the biosphere reserve to the rest of the world via mobile phones.

Internet cafes were available in Wushwush town as well as Wi-Fi services were provided by some business centers and government institutions. It was also connected to many places within the zone and other parts of the region as well as the country and the world via its automatic telephone. This would enable the site could have significant impact tourist flow in the area. However, the area had a problem of clean water. Hence, it had lowest scale of values as component of physical attributes. Similarly (Tezera Chernet, 2008) stated that clean water covers only 57 percent in Gimbo Woreda.

In addition, this site had high scale of value of site suitability which had a value (0.8) of tourist destination as component of environmental attributes. This is due to the presence of different water bodies and small rivers. Based on site observation there is a big river which is called Gicha River, which starts its source from Gichabudi kebele that separates the boundary of Gimbo Woreda and Decha Woreda. It flows along the capital City of Kaffa Zone and combined with Gumi River finally ends in Omo River (Appendix.2 (Fig 6a)). So that, the river has multipurpose use which includes, drinking (both livestock and human), washing (bathing and washing clothes), and irrigation However the existence of flora and fauna has low attribute scaling in this site. This might be related to urban expansion in the area.

Table4. The attributes under socio-cultural, physical and environmental aspects in Wushwush

Site name Attributes and ranks Weights Grade(quality) Socio-cultural attributes Rank1 Traditional handcrafts 0.4[4/10] 0.8 Rank2 Religious sites 0.3[3/10] 0.6 Rank3 Cultural songs of the ritual 0.2[2/10] 0.4 Rank4 Defense sites 0.1[1/10] 0.2 Cumulative value=1+2+3+4=10 Physical attributes Rank 1 Transport 0.3[6/21] 1.2 infrastructure(road) Rank2 Banking service 0.23[5/21] 1 Wushwush Rank3 Telecom service 0.2[4/21] 0.8 31

Rank4 Electricity service 0.14[3/21] 0.6 Rank5 Accommodation service 0.1[2/21] 0.4 Rank6 Clean water service 0.04[1/21] 0.2 Cumulative=1+2+3+4+5+6=21 Environmental attributes Rank1 Site’s suitability 0.33[5/15] 0.8 Rank2 Air and water quality 0.3[4/15] 0.6 Rank3 Rivers 0.2[3/15 0.4 Rank4 Openness of the landscape 0.13[2/15] 0.2 view Rank5 Existence of flora and fauna 0.5[1/15] 0.1 Cumulative=1+2+3+4+5=15

Among physical attribute natural forest had highest scale of values which is 0.6 when compared to other mentioned physical attributes of Shetta Kebele (Table 5). Raba Natural Forest is found in Kaffa biosphere reserve in Shetta Kebele and consists of many indigenous plant species, small to large animal species. The area is an important site for in- situ conservation of biological diversities (Appendix2 (Fig, 2)).

Similarly, (Tezera Chernet, 2008) stated main characteristics species of this forest include Albizzia gummifera, Syzygium guinnennense, Allophyllus abyssinicus, Schefflera abyssinica, Draceaena afromontana, Celtis africana, Chionanthus mildbraedii, Erythrococca trichogyne, Olea welwitschii, Vepris dainelli, Grewia ferruginea, Cyathea manniana, and Ficus spp. Keja Natural Forest is one of natural tourism resource in Gimbo Woreda that consists of variety of plant and animal species in this forest. It is a home for wild coffee and other non-timber products that the local community uses for their livelihood (Appendix2 (Fig, 3)).

This natural forest has been visited by several domestic as well as foreign tourists. It is a nature lover’s dream and a place of world importance with regard to its dazzling range of biodiversity. Information from the kebele natural resource expert and the forest warden revealed that, the forest has giant trees, lianas, epiphytes and ferns form dense, green vegetation. It is home to an abundance of plants and animal species, including the striking black and white Columbus monkey, Lions, leopards, wild cats, De Brazil’s monkeys, bush pigs and antelopes such as the red forest duiker roam in the forests. The area is seismically 32

active and contains awe-inspiring hot thermal springs that are recognized for their spiritual and curative value.

The lowest potential attribute in this site is natural cave which has scale of value of 0.1. In contrary caves are abundantly found in the Biosphere Reserve, like inter alia at Hawulti and Abagipo (Cheta woreda), Boirita (Tello Woreda), Gurguto (Decha Woreda), Yeshay Gachinga, Dosha Tuga, Elelo and Taqe Keto in Gesha woreda (Africa News, 2008).

In terms of socio-cultural potential the site has high Indigenous ritual practice. In line with this, (Zegeye W/Mariam, 2017) stated that, indigenous ritual practice such as Baaree Qoco (commemorating one’s father’s or grandfather’s belief under the big tree or in the house through covering the pillar of the house by Naaxxacho trees (a young tree with succulent leaves) in order to perform the Afaallo (ceremony of purification) in the Biosphere reserve. According to Kifle W/Gebriel (1992), it is the father’s feast. Cultural songs and dances of the ritual as time went by the religious, spiritual, cultural, social and economic significances of ritual practice.

The sacred forest and the need to preserve it intact for posterity were taken up, expressed, reflected and articulated in every cultural song, dance, lyric and poem that was sung or recited in all for an arena in Kafficho society. Similarly, Ceremony of Qoollee Deejjoo ritual (Q.D) was another ritual scarification ceremony held twice a year. It was performed at the beginning of January and September when great quantities of food was available during this season (Zegeye W/Mariam, 2017).

The ritual of sacrifice and thanks giving to the spirit of land and forest was held before eating this new harvest. According to WTO (2002), the local products of tourist destination areas will complement the major facilities of tourism. Therefore, it could be claimed that local handicrafts or products offered by local people to the tourists of Gimbo Woreda and surroundings were complementary to the major facilities of tourism such as transport, excursions /tours and accommodations. Information obtained from experts of Bureau of Culture and Tourism of Gimbo Woreda indicated that the presence of huge ecotourism potentials in and around Kaffa Biosphere Reserve. These were: local handicrafts, tradition, 33

music, dance, wedding ceremony, ways of conflict resolution by well-organized elders and traditional justice providers like (showee Geeno) which means the local elders, and (Allaamoo) which means traditional spiritual fathers. Kafficho people in general and the study Kebeles in particular offer scarification to the Qoolloo in a well organized ceremony. Inline to this, (Kifle W/Gebriel (1992) explained that the execution of the ritual sacrifice ceremony has generally shared pattern of procedures, taboos and rules, which are followed by the performers and participants.

The local community possesses attractive intangible cultural practices such as dance, music, wedding ceremonies, folklore, traditional legend, rituals and gastronomy. Regarding to this (Zegeye W/Mariam, 2017) stated that as time went by the religious, spiritual, cultural, social and economic significances of ritual practice and the sacred forest and the need to preserve it intact for posterity were taken up, expressed, reflected and articulated in every cultural song, dance, lyric and poem that was sung or recited in all for a arena in Kafficho society. Equally, the ritual and religious leaders of Q.D. took these concerns seriously and address the same in their ritual blessings and prayer after the ritual meal is consumed, singing and dancing would start and continue for several minutes.

Table 5: The attributes under socio-cultural, physical, and environmental aspects Shetta

Site name Attributes and ranks weights Grade(quality) Physical Rank1 Natural forest 0.4 [4/10] 0.6

Rank2 Accommodations 0.5[3/10 0.8 Shetta Rank3 Caves 0.2[2/10] 0.4 Rank4 Natural hot spring 0.1 [1/10] 0.2 Cumulative=1+2+3+4=10 Socio-cultural Rank1 Indigenous ritual practice 0.22 [8/36] 1.4 Rank2 Cultural dances 0.2 [7/36] 1.2 Rank3 Cultural food making 0.2 [6/36] 1.2 Rank4 Traditional building 0.13 [5/36] 1

Rank5 cultural places 0.11 [4/36] 0.8 Rank6 new year festivals 0.1[3/36] 0.6 Rank7 Religious sites 0.05 [2/36] 0.4 Rank8 Defense sites 0.02 [1/36] 0.2 Cumulative=1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8=36 Environmental Rank1 Quality of air and water 0.5 [3/6] 0.6 Rank2 Variety of traditional arts and 0.33 [2/6] 0.4 handcrafts Rank3 Site suitability 0.2 [1/6] 0.2 Cumulative =1+2+3=6

As shown in table 6, transportation has high scale of value than other physical attributes in Uffa study site. This might be related with proximity of the area zone capital where infrastructural development is easily expanded and Asphalt road stretched from Addis Ababa to Gimbo town. While electric services in the area has least scale of values since electric service are provided in study site.

In addition, Uffa has potential attraction infrastructures like good banking service, telecom service, electricity service, accommodation service, clean water service, electricity service and transportation. These infrastructures were well developed with highest attribute scale values (Table 6). Currently there are three Banks in Gimbo district that provide ATM as well as foreign exchange services So that the international tourists and domestic tourists can get banking service in the woreda. There are 24 hour hydropower services in towns in this site. Weather roads from Jimma to Mizan, and from Bonga to Masha via Daka, Gesha wereda capital, and Bonga to Uffa accesses Gimbo to modern road transport from different directions. The accommodation service however is few in this site duet its proximity to the capital of the zone. International tourists use some hotels and lodges found in Bonga town.

Regarding to this, (Erduran et al., 2012) stated that ecotourism activities will be held need to be accessible and able to meet the basic needs of the visitors . In line with this, Kaffa

Coffee land Hotel is the one found in the center of Bonga town and is one of the known Hotels in Bonga (Appendix2 (Fig,b)). It is clean and has bedrooms with private or shared bath rooms. Restaurant in the hotel provide traditional and western food/dish. The Hotel gives the meeting wholes services.

Kaffa KDA Guesthouses is another ideal place to stay within the Biosphere reserve during the visit to the kaffa biosphere reserve and a right place for different tours of the region (Appendix2 (Figc)). It is situated 2km outside of Bonga within beautiful landscapes. This guest house has cozy rooms and private bathrooms as well as common room with fire place. Facilities with toilets and showers are available inside KDA guesthouse. It offers the option to hire a cook for a meal and even the entire holiday. Similarly, Makira Hotel is found in the center of Bonga town and has bedrooms with private or shared bathroom, some with scenic view over the forests, restaurant with mainly traditional food and equipments(Appendix. 2(Fig, a)).

Other factors that promote the site to visitors were religious sites such as Qungee mich/Gopa Giyorgis Orthodox Church, Site’s suitability, and Openness of the landscape view. Wetland was another most important natural attraction in Uffa kebele. Among the wetlands Gojeb/Godefo wetland was a wide range of wetland which comprised woody tree species, grasses, island like formation within the wetland. This wetland is accessed through the main rout of Gimbo-Gesha highway which inspires people to relax around it (Appendix2 (Fig, 4)). Alemgono Wetland is another most important wetland which is home fore variety of bird species in Gimbo Woreda where the Jima to Bonga asphalt road cross it (Appendix2 (Fig5).

According to (IBC. 2005), Alemgono Wetland system and its surrounding area is a particularly important breeding habitat for the Wattled Crane (Gruscarunculatus), Black Crowned Crane (Balearica pavonina), Abyssinian Longclaw (Macronyx flavicollis) and Rouget’s Rail (Rougetius rougetti) (IBC,2005).

The biosphere reserve contributes specifically to the preservation of forests habitats without which a number of bird species cannot exist, including the crowned eagle (Stephanoaetus coronatus), African Hill Babbler (Pseudoalcippe abyssinica), Blue-spotted Wood Dove (Turtur afer), Tambourine Dove (Turtur tympanistria), Olive Sunbird (Cyanomitra 36

olivacea), Forest Oriole (Oriolus monacha), Silvery-cheeked Hornbill (Bycanistes brevis), Grey Cuckoo Shrike (Coracina caesia) and Red-shouldered Cuckoo Shrike (Campephaga phoenicea.

The study area would have number of large and small rivers that gives energy for the region. Shurma River is another river starts along the boundary of Gimbo Woreda and Chena Woreda. At its starting point it is called Wosh River. It flows with several small tributary rivers and separate the above two Woredas when it reaches the boundary of Decha and Benchi Maji zone it changes the name and be called Shurma and finally it flows in to Omo River. Another big River is Gojeb River which is found in Gimbo Woreda in Kaffa zone (Appendix2 (Fig, b). It is part of Omo-Gibe Basin. It is stream in Bita Woreda, Koyo kebele at the elevation of 241masl. This River is making boundary between Debub/Kefa zones with Oromia. It is starting on Bita-Woreda, Koyo kebele and ending on Adiyo district-Dula lala kebele and it joins with Omo River.

Gojeb River has different aquatic diversity like different species of fishes, hippos, different bird’s species on Boginda wetland and Boginda wetland is the positive effect of Gojeb River and it is wonderful site to visit. In addition to rivers there is hot sprig in the study district and many local people and surrounding areas used hot springs for therapeutic purposes. In the Biosphere Reserve, the Holly Hot spring is found in Gimbo district and 39km away from Bonga and 10km away from the Ufa town of Gimbo district (Appendix. 2(Fig8). It is one of the hot springs in Kaffa and used as protecting and curing different types of disease for local community and also serves as for recreational value. The other beautiful features of Dadiben hot spring is surrounded by natural forest and fresh water around it. So it is interesting to tourists and the community to visit.

Table 6: The attributes under socio-cultural, physical and environmental aspects in Uffa

Site name Attributes and ranks Weights Grade(quality) Physical Rank1 Transport infrastructure(road) 0.25 [7/28] 1.2 Rank2 Banking service 0.21 [6/28] 1 Rank3 Telecom service 0.2 [5/28] 0.8 Rank4 Electricity service 0.14[4/28] 0.6 Rank5 Accommodation service 0.1 [3/28] 0.4 37

Rank6 Clean water service 0.1 [ 2/28] 0.4 Rank7 Electricity service 0.03 [1/28] 0.2 cumulative=1+2+3+4+5+6+7=28 Social Rank1 Religious sites 0.5 [3/6] 0.6 Rank2 Cultural songs of the ritual 0.33 [2/6] 0.4 Rank3 Traditional new year festivals 0.2[1/6] 0.2 Cumulative=1+2+3=6 Environmental Rank1 Site’s suitability 0.3 [6/21] 1.2 Rank2 Rivers 0.23[5/21] 1 Rank3 wetlands 0.2 [4/21] 0.8 Uffa Rank4 Openness of the landscape 0.14 [3/21] 0.6 view Rank5 Existence of flora and fauna 0.1 [2/21] 0.4 Rank6 Variety of traditional arts and 0.04 [1/21] 0.2 handcrafts Cumulative=1+2+3+4+5+6=21

The potential value for the socio-cultural aspects of the three sites such as Wushwush, Shetta, and Uffa is quantified as 0.12, 0.20, and 0.09, respectively as shown in (Table 7.) The potential value for the physical aspects of above mentioned sites are; 0.44, 0.29, and 0.33, respectively. The potential value of environmental aspect is another attributes that was considered in this study and the potential value of the environmental attribute of three sites is 0.24, 0.18, and 0.35.

Although the three sites holds high physical potential, lack of socio-cultural attributes made it relatively low grade tourism potentials, absence of cultural resources keeping its potential behind. In line with this, the socio-cultural potential value quantified in table (7) in Uffa showed the least value which is 0.09. This is due to improper maintenance of the cultural heritage, cultural intermixing, and luck of awareness of the community that pushed the aspects of tourism behind. On the environmental aspects, the three sites have moderate potential value. The environmental aspects in the three sites are good and there are certain areas where there is need of improvements. in contrast to low socio-cultural potential, Uffa 38

has high environmental potential value scaled 0.35 than other sites in table (8).similarly Wushwush has highest physical potential value which is 0.44 compared to other sites this is because the site is rich in infrastructural facilities.

Table 7: Attributes and their aggregated sums in selected study sites

Sites potential attributes Vp Vs Ve Vt

Wushwush 0.44 0.12 0.24 0.8

Shetta 0.29 0.20 0.18 0.7 Uffa 0.33 0.09 0.35 0.8

Vt= Vp +Vs+Ve where; Vt = total potential value of specific site, Vp =Aggregated potential value of physical attributes, Vs=Aggregated potential value of social attributes Ve = Aggregated Potential value of environmental aspects.

2.5 Uffa 2 0.8 Shetta 1.5 Wushwush 0.7 1 0.33 0.29 0.35 0.5 0.8 Weighte(scale) Value Weighte(scale) 0.09 0.44 0.2 0.18 0 0.12 0.24 Vt Ve Vp AgriVs Agri Agri Agri Agrigate potential values

Figure8: type of potential attributes

4.4. The opportunities for ecotourism development in Gimbo Woreda

As indicated in Table 8 most of the respondents (30%) responded that the existence of different Wildlife is the most important opportunity for the development of ecotourism in

Gimbo Woreda ,some of them (15%) also revealed that the presence of historical resources are one of the best opportunity to attract the visitors to the area and still others (27%) responded that the suitability of the nature of environment like topography is another opportunity for the development of ecotourism activity in Kaffa Biosphere reserve in Gimbo Woreda . The rest percentage of respondents (17%) informs that the provision of different social services is the best opportunity for the development of ecotourism in this study area. In contrary (Kifle Woldegabreil, 2003) states that legal status of any conservation area is crucial in order to have received international support both technically and financially. Legal status of ecotourism resources as internationally recognized plays a great contribution for the flow of tourists in such areas. So that the registration of Kaffa Biosphere reserve in UNESKO and hosted by GTZ-SUN and the ministry of Science and Technology on December 2009 Addis Ababa opened the opportunity for Ecotourism Development.

The Biosphere Reserve could facilitate research into opportunities for eco-tourism in the Kaffa Zone and foster public-private partnerships with Ecotourism Association of Ethiopia (EAE).The EAE represents a response by committed organizations of the private sector of Ethiopia to adopt and promote the principles of ecotourism and eco-efficient initiatives in order to address the challenges faced by the tourism sector. On the contrary, According to NTFP (2006) ecotourism in southwest Ethiopia is hardly explored at all although the Coffee forests have great potential as it harbors unique flora and fauna in a unique landscape.

Table 8: Response about the opportunities of the area for ecotourism development

Opportunities Frequency Percent (%) Existence of different wildlife species 42 30 The presence of historical and cultural resources 21 15 The provision of different social services 24 17 The suitability of the nature of environment like topography 38 27 No response 15 11 Total 140 100

4.5. Perception and attitude of the respondents towards ecotourism Potentials and development in Gimbo Woreda

Majority of the respondents agreed with the statement that local people were involved in tourism development activities within and around Gimbo Woreda (Table 9). The mean score for attitudinal statement about Local people involvement in ecotourism development activities was 3.10. However, a slightly lower proportion disagreed with the same statement that local people were involved in tourism development. Meaningful and true involvement by local people requires direct participation in decision making and management as well as tourism development So that their contribution as stakeholders was realized (Burrow, 1996).

Similarly local people in Gimbo stated that they wished to be actively involved in the decision-making process and to have a voice when decisions are made as a way of ensuring that their felt needs, priorities and interests are considered. These findings coincide with those of Tosun (2006) and Byers (1996) who concluded that in semi pastoral areas sustainable natural resource management requires integrating the values and interests of a range of stakeholders. Local people often have direct interest in local natural resources and therefore their participation in their management and conservation is especially important. Participation is a process designed to develop and strengthen the capacities of local people to gain responsibility for and authority over natural resources, and effectively contribute to all decisions on how these resources are to be used (Burrow, 1996).

The response about the perception and attitude of respondents were determined by mean score methods. Factors above 2.5 were strong factor and accepted while those that score below 2.5 are regarded as weak factors. Therefore the mean score for attitudinal statement about “The area has high ecotourism potentials” in (table9) is 4.15.

These study findings confirm that local communities have a positive attitude towards ecotourism potentials in the region. From respondents view, it was quite evident that both motivational and community factors contribute to appreciation of ecotourism and affect the

general perception of community members towards ecotourism. It was also evident that as time elapses, communities begin to realize benefits from ecotourism and more people get formal education, more community members develop positive attitude and perception towards ecotourism in the area. This is an indicator that the success of ecotourism as well as that of CBEs in the area depended on education and awareness levels of the community members. This may not be the only component to success since the other stakeholders and the government has to do their part in promoting and supporting community ecotourism establishments. The mean score for attitudinal statement about Natural resource potential is higher than other ecotourism potentials is based on above information all attitudinal statement listed in (Table 9) has strong factors.

Table9. Perception and attitude of the respondents about ecotourism potentials and development

Attitudinal statements SA A Nr D SD Total Mean score

The area has high ecotourism potent. 42 58 18 12 10 140 4.15

Local people involved in ecotourism 48 52 16 14 10 140 3.10 development activities

Natural resource potential is higher 70 31 16 4 19 140 4.33 than other ecotourism potentials

SA=strongly agree A=Agree neutral D=Disagree SD=strongly disagree

As information obtained from sample respondents in (Table10) and those individuals involved as key informant in this study reveal that the changes in the provision of infrastructure is changing after the ecotourism project has began due to the recognition of the visitors demand in the study area. So that among the sample respondents participated in this study 42% of the respondents agreed that the different infrastructural activities or changes provided in this Biosphere reserve is medium. Regarding to this, information obtained from Kaffa biosphere reserve project (NABU), Key communication tools for attracting tourists were developed better in the region. Pool of excellent pictures and audio-visuals; documentaries, arouse dreams, inspire people and give them the first idea to 42

decide for a destination developed in the area. In addition to this, print/broadcast media and travel guide books (and their online presence) combine inspiration and trusted information for travelers were being distributed. Various themes have been pre-selected for prioritizing fundraising efforts. They include the promotion of agro forestry in buffer zones or of regional coffee trade chains. Fundraising for any of these themes will substantially benefit from accompanying specific communications work. 18% of respondents agreed that the provision of infrastructure is high, and the rest 12% of the respondents responded that there is no any change in the provision of different infrastructural activities in this Biosphere reserve since the beginning of the Biosphere or the ecotourism project.

Table10. Response about changes in the provision of infrastructure

Changes Frequency Percent (%) High 25 18

Low 39 28

Medium 59 42 no change 17 12 Total 140 100

Chapter5. CONCLUSİON AND RECOMMENDATİONS

5.1. Conclusion

The assessment of ecotourism potentials revealed some of the natural and cultural tourism resources of Gimbo Woreda and its surroundings.

The diverse species and abundant bird or animals and dense forest with diver’s vegetation are found in Gimbo Woreda that contributed to attract eco-tourists or bird watchers to Kaffa Biosphere Reserve.

Some potentials of diversified livelihoods or alternative options like local handicrafts, local culture, skills including in offering services, guiding services, local drinks and foods, local recreational activities, cultural shows and historical resources that could be indicators of ecotourism potentials and could be offered by local communities were also detected.

Tourist facilities and services like bird watching towers, camping sites and guiding services in Gimbo and hotels or lodges nearby Gimbo town in Bonga the Capital of Kaffa which were offered to the tourists. In terms of ecotourism development there is the provision of critical infrastructures like asphalt road, electricity, telecommunication some hotels or lodges and their recreational corresponding cultural dishes.

The study also revealed that the local community has positive attitude and perception about the biosphere reserve and ecotourism development. The study also revealed some ecotourism potentials or alternative options, and changes in ecotourism services and development which benefited the local communities while sustainable management of natural resources of the biosphere reserve and created admirable environment for visitors. In general the study attempted to reveal some ecotourism potentials and possibilities of alternative options, which are under developed like local handcrafts.

5.2. Recommendations

The study area is endowed with diverse potentials of resources that attract tourists. However, still there are lots of resources underdeveloped like local handicrafts and some of ecotourism potentials. Therefore;

 Promoting further study about overall resources and products that are essential for an ecotourism is important for sustainable tourism development of the study area.  Reinforcing the existing ecotourism opportunity as well as providing new opportunity is necessarily implemented in the study area.  In order to increase the flow of visitors to a certain destination and satisfy the need of ecotourism, proper and full tourist facility is the best alternative. So that, the existing tourist facilities and products of the study area must be improved and further provision of different facilities and products must be promoted.  The attitude and perception of the community members at the vicinity of the Biosphere Reserve must be identified and shaped.  At woreda level there is no places that different cultural and historical tools are put and there must be museum collections in the study area.

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Appendix

Appendix1

Table1: Some Steps used to compute the Attribute Values in Multi Criteria Decision Method (MCDM)

Total Potential (V) = Potential Value for Physical Aspects (Vp) + Potential Value for Socio cultural Aspects (Vs) + Potential Value for Environmental Aspects (Ve) Total Potential (V) = Wp*[w1s1 + w2s2 +…. +wnsn] physical + Ws*[w1s1 + w2s2 +…. +wnsn] socio-cultural + We*[w1s1 + w2s2 + …. +wnsn] environmental

For Wushwush

VT=0.40*[0.3*1.2+0.23*1+1*0.23+0.2*0.8+0.14*0.6+0.1*0.4+0.04*0.2]Vp +[0.33*0.8+0.3*0.6+0.2*0.4+0.13*0.2+0.5*0.1]Ve+ 0.20[0.4*0.8+0.3*0.6+0.2*0.4+0.1*0.2]Vs=0.44 For Shetta VT=0.40[0.4*0.6+0.5*0.8+0.2*0.4+0.1*0.2]Vp+0.20[0.22*1.4+0.2*1.2+0.2*1.2+0.13*1+ 0.11*0.8+0.1*0.6+0.05*0.4+0.02*0.2] Vs+0.40[0.5*0.6+0.33*0.4+0.2*0.2]Ve For Uffa

VT=0.40[0.25*1.2+0.21*1+0.2*0.8+0.14*0.6+0.1*0.4+0.1*0.4+0.03*0.2]vp+0.20[0.5*0.6 +0.33*0.4+0.2*0.2]vs+0.40[0.3*1.2+0.23*1+0.2*0.8+0.14*0.6+0.1*0.4+0.04*0.2]ve Where: VT=Total Potential Value of attributes VP=potential value of physical attribute Vs= potential value of social attribute Ve=potential value of environmental attribute Wn= weight of attribute value Sn= scale of attributes value

Appendix2

B A

Figure 1: Wildlife’s in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve (Source: NABUS Field guide2013)

A Columbus Monkey B Common Baboon C Yellow fronted parrot D: Black-crowned Crane

Figure 2: Raba natural forest (Source: Field Photo by Atinafu, 2017)

Figure 3: Keja natural forest (Source: Field Photo by Atinafu, 2017)

Figure 4: Gojeb/Godefoo Wetland (Source: NABUS Field guide2013)

December , 2017

Figure 5: Bird Watching tour in Alemgono wetland (Source: Field Photo by (Atinafu, 2017)

Figure 6: Rivers in Gimbo Woreda (Source: Field Photo by Atinafu, 2017)

A Gicha River

B Godefoo River 56

Figure7: Dadiben holly hot sprig (Source: NABUS Field guide2013)

Figure 8: Bongee shambetoo (Source: Bunoo Magazin2011)

Figure 9: Historical House and compound of Allaamoo (Source: Bunoo Magazin2011)

Figure 10: Indigenous qoollee deejoo (ritual practice) and cultural resources (Source: Bunoo Magazin2011)

A and B Cultural songs and dances of the ritual C and D Traditional handcrafts E indigenous Qoollee Deejjoo( ritual)

A B C

Figure 11: Accommodation and services near Gimbo Woreda (Source: Sigrum Lange)

A Mankira Hotel B Coffee land Hotel, C KdA Guest house

Figure12: Cultural dishes in Gimbo (Source: Bunoo Magazin, 2011)

APPENDIX3: Household Survey Questioner format

Title: Assessment of Ecotourism Potentials and Development in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve in South Nations Nationalities and Peoples Regional State in Gimbo woreda.. I/ Personal Background Information Name of respondent ______Region______Zone______Wereda:______Kebele: ______Interviewer ______Date of Interview _____

1. Sex: a. Male 60

b. Female 2. Age A.15-30 B.31-45 C.46-60 d.>60 6. Literacy level: a. illiterate b. able to read c. primary school c. secondary school and above Questionnaire 1 Tourism Resources That Can Attract Tourists to the Study Area 1.1 Are there tourism resources in surroundings/the biosphere reserve? a. Yes b. No 1.2 What are the main tourism resources that can attract tourists in this location? a. Natural resources B. cultural resources c. historical resources d. all above e. others 1.3 is there natural tourism resources in locality that can attract visitors? A YES B NO 1.4 Which natural tourism resources in locality that can attract visitors? a. lakes b. birdlife c. wildlife d. hot springs e. all Above 1.5 Is there cultural and historical tourism resources? 61

A Yes B no 1.6 Which cultural and historical tourism resources that are found in your locality? a. museum collections b. local Handicrafts c. religious sites d. folklore/story telling tradition e. all above except a f, Specify others 1.7 What are the special features of tourist spot? a. scenic beauty area endowed with bird life b. area of recreation c. favorable area for visiting d. all above e. specify other 1.8 is there historical caves or heritages in this Biosphere reserve? A yes B No 1.12 What tourist services /facilities members of local communities will offer in this spot? Give answers for the following questionnaires A Guiding Yes/No b Local transportation to the spot go round Yes/No c Local drinks yes/No d Local foods yes/No e Local recreational sports Yes/No f Local handicraft products Yes/No g Local culture, skills included in offering services Yes/No? 1.13 The perception and attitudes of the local community towards the Biosphere Reserve A How do you understand the Biosphere Reserve?

B What is your perception about the Biosphere Reserve 62

Interviews or questionnaire to senior experts of natural resources, the Biosphere managers/wardens and other concerned stakeholders about natural resources management of Kaffa Biosphere reserve in Gimbo woreda Personal Background Information I. Personal Background Information about informants/interviewers. 1. Name: ------2. Age: ------3. Educational status: ------4. Occupational status: Government/private/NGO/others------5. Name of organization: ______6. Designation: ______7. Years of working experience: ______1 is there historical caves or heritages in this Biosphere reserve? A yes B No 2 Is there guesthouse, Hotels, restaurant? A yes B No 4 What are social services for local people in and around the Biosphere Reserve? Interviews or Questionnaire to professionals/experts of tourism, natural resources management and other related stakeholders I. Personal Background Information The purpose of this section is to get Personal Background Information about Informants/interviewers. 1. Name: ------2. Age: ------3. Educational status: ------4. Occupational status: Government/private/NGO/others 5. Name of organization: ------63

Designation: ------7. Years of working experience: ______II. Natural resources base and ecotourism potentials

1 Does the area have River, falls or swimming pools? a yes b no 3. Is the surrounding area having? a. of high scenic beauty b. Moderately attractive c. Rather ordinary 4 Do you think natural resource potential is higher than other ecotourism potential? A strongly agree B agree C no response D disagree E strongly disagree 8 what is your attitude that the area has high ecotourism potential? A strongly agree B agree C I can’t decide D disagree E strongly disagree III. Part C Ecotourism initiatives and tourists facilities 1. What are the tourist facilities available in this biosphere? ------

2 are local culture, skills included in offering services? A Yes b No 3. Is the facility in local style? 64

a Yes b No Questionnaire for key informants I. Personal Background Information about informants/interviewers. 1. Name: ------2. Age: ------3. Educational status: ------4. Occupational status: Government/private/NGO/others------5. Name of organization: ______6. Designation: ______Places of natural and cultural interest 1Is there any place that makes the people to enjoy in this Biosphere reserve? a Yes b No 2 What are the Tourist attractions and amenities in and around Biosphere Reserve?

3 What are ecotourism resources and products for ecotourism development in Kaffa biosphere reserve?

4 What are the opportunities of natural and cultural sites around the biosphere reserve?

5 What are potential natural and cultural sites within the biosphere reserve?

6 What are existing physical facilities for tourism development within biosphere reserve? 65

7 The opportunities and potentials of natural and cultural sites around the biosphere reserve in the area.

9 what are existing physical facilities for tourism and requirements for future development and to establish a tourist profile

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

The author was born on August 1987 at Chena Woreda, Kaffa Zone, in Southern nation’s nationalities and people’s regional state of Ethiopia. He attended his elementary education (1-8) at Abera uda Elementary school and his secondary (9-10) and preparatory (11-12) education at Shishinda high and preparatory and secondary school. He then joined Mizan - Tepi University in Collage of Agriculture and environmental science in 2014 in Natural Resource Management department and he was graduated in July 02/2016. Then he passed the examination given by Ministry of Education of Ethiopia for Graduate assistance of newly established 11Universities. Then after, the author joined the School of Graduate Studies of Bahir Dar University College of Agriculture and Environmental Science Regular program in 2016 to study his Master of Science degree in wildlife and ecotourism management.