Factors Influencing the Penetration of Circularity within the Tourism Economy of Western Kisumu - Kenya: A Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling.

Abstract

In Africa, tourism destinations face sustainability challenges as tourist arrivals adversely affect their ecological integrity. Although circularity provides many opportunities, including resource efficiency and waste reduction, its penetration is limited. This study examines factors affecting the adoption of circular practices in Western  Kenya, using a survey of 232 hospitality facilities and PLS SEM analysis. The results reveal, among others,  a negative relationship between high tourist activity and circularity penetration, the awareness of environmental policies boosts circularity, and a positive effect of employee training on industrial integration of circularity. These findings emphasise the need for targeted interventions such as policy awareness, staff training, and infrastructure investment to promote circularity in the Kisumu tourism sector. The research provides empirical evidence from rural local enterprises in Kisumu, extending the understanding of circular principles applications in the rural tourism economy.