Exploring under utilized tourist sites in the tamale metropolis of the northern region of Ghana

Abstract

The Metropolis is endowed with unique tourism products, yet this opportunity is not well utilized, leading to loss of revenue in this section of the Metropolis. Improved patronage of the tourist sites will lead to revival of the cultural heritage of its host communities and economic empowerment. The main objective is to access the level of public awareness of tourist sites within communities in the Tamale Metropolis. Data was gathered from documented evidence. Both closed ended and open ended as well as likert scale were embodied in the questionnaire and interview guide were administered to community members, potential tourists, custodians of the tourist site and tour guards. Results from the study show that, level of awareness was very low with 10.34%. Assessment of the level of satisfaction to tourist‟s sites by local residence was 44.83% dissatisfied. Level of participation of respondent in tourism activities within the Tamale Metropolis was 35.35% below average. Lack of economic ability and lack of transparency on the part of management was also a factor. The results also showed the challenges of tourist‟s sites which includes insufficient recreational facilities. The awareness level is low, very little is heard from the actors of the sites including Government and its tourisms related agencies especially Ghana Tourism Authorities (GTA) to promote the sites for international recognition. Recommendation, all stakeholders must initiate awareness programmes for local inhabitants in the metropolis in general. An expansion in local tourism industry is relevant to ensure massive community participation by expanding the industry to create small business that will give opportunities for employment in the communities. Attractive facilities should be provided at the tourist sites to make it more comfortable and attractive for prospective tourists.