Effects of waste disposal and sanitation practices on Coastal Tourism in Gomoa Nyanyano.

Abstract

Coastal tourism can foster economic growth, environmental preservation, and community development in Gomoa Nyanyano, a picturesque coastal region in Ghana. This study examined the effects of waste disposal practices on coastal tourism in Gomoa Nyanyano. An exploratory research design was used for the study. A total of 28 participants, including 15 coastal community members and key stakeholders such as Assemblymen, hotel administrators, and officials from the Ghana Tourism Authority and the District Sanitation Officer, were interviewed for the study. Besides the interviews, documentary analysis and observations were undertaken to enhance the study's insights and depth. A combination of purposive and accidental sampling was employed to select participants. Purposive sampling was used to identify key stakeholders such as Assemblymen, hotel administrators, officials from the Ghana Tourism Authority, and the District Sanitation Officer, whose insights were crucial to understanding the impact of waste disposal on coastal tourism. Accidental sampling allowed for the inclusion of community members who were readily available during data collection, ensuring that local perspectives were captured. Data was analysed using themes derived from the responses of the participants. The study found that Nyanyano is experiencing worsening solid waste management challenges, including inadequate waste disposal infrastructure, ineffective waste collection systems, and limited financial, logistical, and human resources within the District Assembly to effectively manage waste. Improper waste disposal in the studied coastal communities is primarily due to a lack of attitudinal change among residents and insufficient government commitment. This is supported by interviews with community members and stakeholders, as well as observational data and documentary analysis. The study recommends that integrated and sustainable efforts be adopted through the collaboration of the Local Government Ministry, District Assembly, private sector, and the active participation of community members in solid waste management and coastal tourism development.