Potential and Economic Contribution of Ecotourism In Case of Arbaminch Town

Abstract

Ecotourism has as a good example of alternative income generation and off-farm activities which benefit local communities while achieve the conservation goals of natural resources. The purpose of this study was to identify the economic contribution of ecotourism in Arbaminch town and to assess the potential of ecotourism in Arbaminch town. The primary data was gathering by the way of questionnaire, interview and filed observation. Secondary data also was collect through available sources such as books, magazines, journal and unpublished data. Purposive sampling technique was applied to conduct this survey on the site of Arbaminch and 48 respondents were selected. Economic contribution of ecotourism in Arbaminch town ecotourism has a great significance in the development of one’s nation due to the following mentioned reason; create job opportunities, facilitate sustainable development, to enhance social cohesion and the Ecotourism potentials available in Arbaminch town such as Arbaminch crocodile ranches, Arbaminch or forty springs, God bridge / ye egizer dilidiy, Gamo highland, Gamo hand craft, different lodge and resorts and different hotels