Information and communication technology as a tool for craft market traders in promoting community tourism.
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Date
2017
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Abstract
This is an interdisciplinary study, taking information and communication technology (ICT)
as a point of departure, incorporating tourism, art and craft, e-business and community
development as the field of knowledge. The craft market traders around Hluhluwe-Imfolozi
Park (HIP) lack essential business tools, such as ICT devices, to improve craft market
trading with tourists, nationally and internationally, without the intervention of the
middleman, who could help to enable sustainable community development. Craft market
traders manufacture or produce their crafts using natural resources such as Juncus
maritimus and thatch grass for mats, bowls and hats. They use tree trunks and natural wood
for sculptures and meat platters. Most of these natural resources are already depleted
outside the protected areas and local communities have to rely on natural resources inside
the park. Harvesting without permission in the park is illegal.
The researcher has provided a step-by-step outline on how she intends to execute the logical
chain of events that would produce solutions to the problems identified and answers to
critical questions. The researcher examined the historical background of craft, the cultural
background of the craft market traders and ICT devices that can improve their business
performance. The business sector, as well as government, played a role in the success of
this research. ABSA Bank and the Department of Economic Development were engaged.
There are possible positive outcomes, such as the installation of an ABSA automatic teller
machine in HIP. The overall objective of the research was to find solutions that can enhance
the standard of living of the local communities, by increasing the employment rate in terms
of craft market traders selling their craft, nationally and internationally.
Description
Doctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.