Gorilla Tourism and Conservation as a Poverty Reduction and Resilience Strategy: Implications for Community and Livelihood Development in Southwestern Uganda

Whilst conservation tourism is considered a fast growing industry in Uganda, its contribution to poverty reduction, particularly in communities adjacent to protected areas is perceived to be insignificant. This paper uses a... [ view full abstract ]

Whilst conservation tourism is considered a fast growing industry in Uganda, its contribution to poverty reduction, particularly in communities adjacent to protected areas is perceived to be insignificant. This paper uses a Pro-Poor Tourism perspective to examine the role of gorilla conservation and tourism in improving the livelihoods and well-being of communities bordering the Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks in Southwestern Uganda. The study employs a qualitative methodology involving interviews of residents of communities surrounding the parks and staff of NGOs as key informants. The study also reviews and analyzes official government documents and reports of development agencies operating in the area. The paper examines the tourism revenue sharing program that is currently being implemented within communities located around the gorilla parks and the activities of conservation based NGOs in tourism development within the region. Our study revealed that inclusive tourism development initiatives that incorporate community based tourism activities into the mainstream gorilla tourism programs will have the potential of creating diversified local economies and improve household well-being. The paper argues that several policy strategies need to be put in place for tourism to have a sustainable impact on the lives of communities that reside around the gorilla parks. Some of our recommendations include transforming the tourism revenue sharing program into a Conditional Cash Transfer system which should be accompanied by strategic investment in physical infrastructure improvement within the area. The paper also calls for the need to have regular monitoring and evaluation programs that will ascertain the impact of tourism on household poverty and livelihoods. Such an approach will create a feedback loop that will inform policy and change practice and thereby ensure sustainable outcomes.