The socio-economic impacts of ecotourism in rural areas: a case study of Nompondo and the HluhluweiMfolozi Park (HiP).

African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure

Urmilla Bob¹  Sakhile Nsukwini² 

[1] University Dean of Research University of KwaZulu-Natal ;University of Mpumalanga;

关键词: Socio-economic impacts;    Nompondo community;    Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park;    Resources;   

DOI  :  

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Community involvement is increasing in importance in relation to nature conservation and ecotourism which includes public participation in decision-making, access to biological resources and communities’ receipt of benefits from ecotourism. South Africa is well known for biodiversity conservation. Yet, research indicates that neighbouring historically disadvantaged communities remain impoverished and have limited access to resources and benefits from conservation areas. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) is a key conservation area and ecotourism destination in South Africa. This study examines the socio-economic impacts of ecotourism in rural areas adjacent to HiP with specific reference to the Nompondo community to assess whether the historical trends of marginalisation remain. One hundred and thirty households (from a total of 435 households that comprise the Nompondo community) were interviewed using the systematic sampling approach. The results indicate that the Nompondo community benefits in various ways but not to their level of satisfaction. Members of the community are allowed access to resources such as meat, thatching grass, firewood and water. Additionally, a range of opportunities for positive interactions with the Park's management/ staff include job opportunities, good working relations and joint problem solving. Key tourism related benefits include interaction with the tourists, sale of crafts and opportunities to profile cultural activities. However, there remains the need to improve beneficiation given the high poverty and unemployment rates in Nompondo.

【 授权许可】

Unknown