Paper short abstract:

This research aims to investigate the multifaceted impact of climate change on the tourism industry in East African countries, with a focus on Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. The study holds significant academic and social relevance as it addresses the pressing need to understand and mitigate

Paper long abstract:

This research aims to investigate the multifaceted impact of climate change on the tourism industry in East African countries, with a focus on Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. The study holds significant academic and social relevance as it addresses the pressing need to understand and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on tourism, a vital economic sector in the region. The purpose of this study is to identify the areas most susceptible to climate change in East Africa, develop strategies to mitigate its impact on tourism and explore opportunities for sustainable tourism development. By doing so, the research seeks to contribute to the creation of employment opportunities, promotion of environmental conservation, and diversification of the economy in these countries.

The problem addressed in this research is the vulnerability of the tourism industry in East African countries to the destabilizing effects of climate change. The heavy dependence of tourism on a stable climate is threatened by the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and other manifestations of climate change. This poses a severe threat to the industry, which in turn affects the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism-related activities. Furthermore, the study addresses the environmental impact of tourism-related emissions, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices to mitigate the industry's carbon footprint.

The study will gather panel from reputable sources such as the Climate Change Knowledge Portal (CCKP) and the World Bank Development Indicators for selected East African Countries. The data spans from 1993 to 2022.

The expected outcome of this research is to provide valuable insights into the specific ways in which climate change is impacting tourism in East African countries. By identifying vulnerable areas and assessing the economic, environmental, and social implications, the study aims to inform the development of targeted strategies to mitigate the negative effects of climate change on tourism. Additionally, the research seeks to highlight opportunities for sustainable tourism development, which can contribute to economic diversification, environmental conservation, and the creation of employment opportunities in the region.