Abstract:
This study aimed to examine the level of community participation in ecotourism development in the case
of Wunania–Kosoye natural attraction site᎓ perception and challenge in focus. Although, Wunania Kosoye natural attraction has a huge potential for the development and implementation of
ecotourism, its contributions to the tourism sector is low. In order to take the necessary action, it
is crucial to assess the extent of community participation in the development of ecotourism
among residents of or around Wunania Kosoye. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, this
research adopted both a quantitative and qualitative (mixed) research approach. The target population of
the study were the local community residing in Chirambezo, Kosoye Ambaras, and Gunda Chugie
Kebeles of Wunania-Kosoye natural attraction site, Kebele leaders, and experts/professionals from three
kebele. Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to select participants. A
total of 292 samples participated in this study. Data was collected through a questionnaire, in-depth
interviews, and focus group discussion. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.
The qualitative data sets were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of this study showed that the
majority of respondents had jobs related to the tourism industry and participated in accommodation,
followed by food and beverage. The most powerful individuals in the decision-making process of tourism
development are tourism officers, followed by kebele or woreda administrators. The majority of
respondents indicated that they experienced moderate intervention in the decision-making process and
that their participation in tourism activities has decreased. The mean score for local people’s involvement
and participation in ecotourism activities is below the midpoint indicating that local people’s involvement
and participation in ecotourism was not at the expected level. The analysis showed that the most
prevalent challenges that affected the ecotourism development in Wanania-Kosoye were corruption and
greediness, followed by lack of support and conflict of leadership.
