Socio-Cultural Impacts of Tourism on Host Communities in the Fako Division. South-West Region, Cameroon

Objective: This article aims to examine the impact of tourism on cultural practices, local identities and social relations within communities in the Fako Division, in the south-west region of Cameroon. Methodology: Based on content analysis, this article is qualitative in nature. Primary and contextual data were collected in one of three languages (French, English, Pidgin) from administrative, traditional and religious authorities, tour operators, tourist guides, representatives of NGOs and tourist GICs, directors of cultural affairs, community members and tourists over a period from January 2019 until saturation point was reached. The research was conducted at several tourist sites in the Fako Division. Standard techniques used in development anthropology (direct observation using an observation grid, participant observation, in-depth interviews and group discussions, case studies, life stories, photography) were employed, based on ethical considerations, using interview and observation guides, a camera for taking photographs, a recorder and notebooks. The data collected was grouped and processed using ATLAS.ti software. The theory of social representations developed by Jodelet (1993), Herzlich (1972) and Laplantine (1987) served as a guiding principle for the analysis and interpretation of the data. Results: This was an exploratory qualitative study that examined the role of tourism in local development in Fako. Based on a critical review of recent literature and local case studies (Limbé beaches, Mount Cameroon, National Park, cultural heritage of Buea), the article identified several impacts, the main one being a reduction in unemployment, particularly among young people and women, in rural and peri-urban areas of Fako. Socio-economically, communities benefit directly from the income generated. Direct jobs are created for young people, women and other vulnerable groups within the community. Profits can be reinvested in community development projects (s