STAKEHOLDER PERCEPTIONS ON POLITICAL CONFLICT AND TRUST IN AUTHORITIES TO DEVELOP ECOTOURISM IN CAMEROON

Abstract

Ecotourism is often touted as an ideal model for community-based tourism, where the involvement and participation of locals forms the basis of the sector, bringing with it an amplitude of benefits to participants. The aim of this study was to examine stakeholder and community perceptions of conflict, corruption and a lack of trust as having negative impacts on the development ecotourism in Cameroon. The study employed a qualitative research approach, conducting in-depth interviews with stakeholder groups with knowledge of ecotourism in the country. Key findings reveal that barriers stemming from closed social networks, a lack of trust, and instances of conflict and corruption mar the ability of locals to effectively participate in the sector, rendering negative perceptions towards the sector. In many cases, the sector has come to be seen as one that breeds or encourages corrupt exclusionary practices, such as nepotism and the dominance of the private sector in what should be a public affair.