Community Based Tourism in Twyfelfontein Conservancy: Exploring Local Community’s Involvement

Abstract

Local communities in Namibia have few options for alternative income, apart from selling souvenirs and livestock farming. The overall aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between tourism as a modern economic activity and the plight of indigenous people venturing into Community Based Tourism Enterprises (CBTs). The study examined actors, structures and institutions within the context of community involvement in CBTs and made use of both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. The purpose of using a qualitative approach was to get an in-depth understanding of the social and psychological phenomena that could lead to the formation of certain perceptions towards community based tourism (CBT) at Twyfelfontein Uibasen Conservancy. On the other hand, the quantitative approach sought to use numerical measurements and statistical analysis to examine social phenomena data obtained through the use of questionnaires. Sample population comprised 58 community members and 9 stakeholders made up of government, private sector and Non-Governmental Organizations. It is apparent from the study that issues of governance and ownership of commercial activities are still beyond reach of the community members. CBT partnerships have been pursued for economic purposes than for sustainable development. Whilst the conservancies were set up as a strategy for poverty alleviation the study observes that development has not yet filtered down to the needy. Local participation through ownership, capacity building and control should have precedence above pure economic issues. The study further recommends that the CBRM program as a dominant development model should recognize the need for capacity building, shared values and desires of the potential beneficiaries.

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