Title: Practices and challenges of linking the handicraft sector to sustainable tourism development: evidence from Gamo and Konso zones, southern Ethiopia

Authors: Damene Bogale; Negussie Tiruneh

Addresses: Department of Tourism and Hotel Management, Arbaminch University, Arbaminch, +251, Ethiopia ' Department of Tourism and Hotel Management, Arbaminch University, Arbaminch, +251, Ethiopia

Abstract: As part of the tourism value chain, handicrafts greatly contribute to income generation, employment creation, community empowerment and poverty reduction. Underpinned by the triple-bottom-line (TBL) theory, this study examines the practices and challenges of linking the handicraft sector to sustainable tourism development in Gamo and Konso Zones, southern Ethiopia. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study collects data from handicraft producers and tourists, through the in-depth interview and focus group discussion techniques. Research findings reveal that though the areas are efficient sources of various colourful handicraft products, yet they are not effectively linked to sustainable tourism development because of the existing pressing challenges. The study further proposes a framework of sustainable handicraft tourism (SHT). Findings also offer both theoretical and practical implications for scholars, handicraft policy makers and destination managers in their effort to properly link handicraft products to sustainable tourism. Limitations and future research directions are also discussed.

Keywords: handicrafts; handicraft-based tourism; sustainable tourism; TBL; triple-bottom-line; handicraft-tourism framework; Gamo; Konso; Ethiopia; qualitative research.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2022.126625

International Journal of Tourism Policy, 2022 Vol.12 No.3, pp.245 - 272

Received: 31 May 2021
Accepted: 21 Sep 2021
Published online: 31 Oct 2022 *

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