Incorporating Cultural Heritage into the Local Tourism Development Strategy in Kwa Ndebele: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The study employed a purposive sampling technique to identify multiple sources to systematically search, critically appraise and synthesise the matter of incorporating cultural heritage into the local tourism development strategy in Kwa-Ndebele. A total of 39 sources were consulted to achieve the objectives of the study. The results show that cultural heritage tourism can draw a large number of tourists due to its primary significance to the community. It manifests itself through lived realities, places, and objects that give true meaning, the purpose of existence, and a sense of belonging to the Ndebele culture. The sustainability of cultures can be used for positioning the destination for its food, cultural heritage landscape, artwork and history. However, tourism development has lagged because of conflicts of interest confronting different stakeholders within the local area. There is an element of fear among the local communities that cultural integration may destroy the authenticity of local cultures and natural landscapes. Even though tourism may lead to social problems, integrating cultural heritage into local tourism development is complicated. However, no evidence shows that incorporating culture into regional economic growth can have adverse effects. The paper concludes that a concerted effort must be made to minimise the negative consequences of cultural integration while unlocking local economic development opportunities for the growth of tourism and social good. The paper contributes to the body of knowledge on incorporating cultural heritage into tourism development strategy to respond to the socio-economic needs of local communities.

Keywords

• cultural heritage tourism
• local knowledge
• commodification
• cultural conservation
• sustainability