Effects of Cultural Tourism Practices on Socio-Economic Development of the Communities living in Machakos County, Kenya

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to establish the effects of cultural tourism practices on the socio-economic development of the communities living in Machakos County, Kenya. Methodology: The study adopted a quantitative research approach with an explanatory census survey design. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 191 employees drawn from 31 targeted attraction sites in Machakos County. Sustainable livelihood theory and theory of Inclusive rural development were used to guide this study. Data was collected using questionnaires. Descriptive statistics was used to understand the data as well as the demographic profile of the respondents. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to address the research question and test the corresponding research hypotheses. Findings: The findings of this study indicated that cultural tourism practices (β = .345, t = 3.692, p < .001), was a significant predictor of social-economic development among the communities in Machakos County, Kenya. Recommendations: It was recommended that the county government of Machakos should strengthen partnerships with the local business sector, the local community sector, and general stakeholders and enhance community sensitization. Further, the local community should join hands with the tourism authorities to showcase their products by setting up a location whereby the tourist on their way to the park can make a stopover and have a look at the display of their products and cultures