Abstract
This study examines determinants of residents’ support for tourism by
testing a model based on the social exchange and material culture theories. The
model proposes that perceptual heritage proximity influences residents’ attitudes
to positive and negative impacts of tourism, which in turn influence residents’
support for tourism. The model was tested using data gathered from a sample
of 256 local residents in Kaole Village, Tanzania. Results from structural equation
modelling indicate that heritage proximity has an influence on attitudes to
the impacts of tourism, which in turn influence support. The findings imply that
heritage proximity serves as a point of reference for residents’ evaluation of tourism,
which is critical in fostering support. Findings confirm the relevance of the
heritage proximity concept in explaining support for tourism. The study provides
recommendations to better engage the residents in tourism development. Suggestions
for future research are provided.