Public private partnership and socio cultural sustainability of tourism development in Sidama regional state, Ethiopia

Public–private Partnerships emerge as a crucial mechanism for leveraging combined resources and expertise to prioritize the preservation of socio-cultural aspects of tourism. This study aims to analyze the impact of Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) on Socio-cultural Sustainability (SCS) in tourism development through the lens of Destination Management Strategies (DMS). It examines the direct effects of PPPs on SCS and explores the mediating role of destination management strategies in the relationship. Methodologically, the study employed a mixed research approach with a descriptive and explanatory research design. The data are collected from private and public sector employees and local community leaders through a self-administered survey questionnaire from a sample population of 435. The study applied stratified sampling techniques. Descriptive analyses (frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviations) are projected for the study. The study employed a Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach using AMOS v. 27. The first phase involved evaluating the measurement elements for each construct by confirmatory factor analysis. Then, the structural model was examined to validate the study's hypotheses. The findings demonstrate that research practices and planning have the most substantial positive impact on SCS, while tourism promotion had a lesser influence. DMS significantly mediated the relationship between PPPs and SCS, amplifying the positive outcomes. These results demonstrate the critical role of collaboration between the public and private sectors, supported by effective destination management, in promoting the integrity of SCS in the Sidama region.