The Socio-Economic Impacts of Nature-based Tourism: The case study of Bakgatla ba-ga Kgafela in the Pilanesberg National Park
Date
2006-03-20
Authors
Motlhanke, Simon Goitsimodimo
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Abstract
This research explores the socio-economic impact of nature-based tourism on surrounding
communities in the Pilanesberg National Park (PNP). The study pays particular attention to
the Bakgatla community. The study looks at issues of employment creation, and the
participation of the community in the management of the park. Of particular importance here is whether, PNP generates employment and income making opportunities for neighbouring
communities, most notably, the Bakgatla. The level at which the Bakgatla are involved in
decision-making processes of the park is closely scrutinised. Notwithstanding the obvious
limitations with regard to the kinds and number of jobs that PNP, as an attraction is able to
generate in the area, the study reveals a significant contribution that the park makes in this regard. Lodges serve as the major sources of employment recruitment in the PNP. The bulk
of the recruits are mainly people from surrounding communities except in cases where
required skills are not available locally. Concerning the question of participation, the study shows that more still need to be done in terms of broadening the concept to include and
reflect diverse interests groups within the community. The concept of community participation also needs to be defined beyond mere ‘trickling down’ of benefits to the
community, to imply real empowerment. The latter relates to the question of sustainability,
which could effectively be realised through meaningful involvement of the community groups and individuals in the making of decisions, and policies affecting their lives.
Description
Master of Arts - Development Studies
Keywords
socio-economic, tourism, south africa, pilansberg