Contribution of eco-tourism to nature conservation and improvement of livelihoods around Amani nature reserve, Tanzania

Abstract

Eco-tourism is acknowledged for playing a central role in conservation of natural resources and improvement of livelihoods especially in biodiversity-rich areas of developing countries. Theoretically, support for conservation from rural residents who live next to protected areas is maximised if they benefit economically. Using Amani Nature Reserve (ANR) in Tanzania, as a case study, this paper examines whether and to what extent eco-tourism improves local livelihoods and hence conservation. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, Participatory Rural Appraisal and interviews with key stakeholders. Findings indicate that, over Tanzanian Shillings (TAS) 12 million (≈ US$10,000; US$ 1 = TAS 1300 in November 2007) are generated by ANR annually as revenue from eco-tourism. About 20% of this is distributed equally to the 18 villages that surround the reserve. Despite an increase in revenues, there was discontent among residents regarding the percentage share and other benefits they receive from eco-tourism. On average, eco-tourism contributes 9.6% of total annual household income but only 22.7% of the households earn income from eco-tourism. The paper concludes that, in ANR, eco-tourism provides little benefits to local residents and suggestions for appropriate mechanisms of sharing benefits and enhancement of peoples' participation in eco-tourism are underlined.