Effect of Regulation on Curbing Over tourism in East Africa. A Critical Literature Review

Purpose: Over tourism irritates local people especially in rural areas.  Over tourism has sparked a backlash by the local community especially by increasing the costs of living in their cities. The general objective of the study was to examine effect of regulation on curbing over tourism in East Africa Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: From the findings identified, and the literature reviewed, the concept of tourism sustainability can be construed to be the preservation of natural capital, economic and socio-cultural ecosystems within a three-pillar model that defines the three dimensions of sustainability. This integrated approach to sustainable tourism development is key in efforts to achieve sustainable tourism development in Africa. The concept of regulations to curb overtourism in East Africa has brought striking paradoxes for destination marketers and destination planners alike. Recommendations: The study recommends that there is need to develop a national framework for identifying the physical, ecological, socio-cultural and economic limits and the carrying capacity of visitor activity or tourism development at a given tourism area and time. Institute and enforce tourism regulations and policies to ensure that the physical, social and ecological impacts of overtourism are addressed in East Africa. Enforce tourism certification as a means for advocating for tourism sustainability within the East Africa region