Ecotourism Sustainability in African Rangelands

Rangelands constitute about 80% of the land surface of most African countries. These lands are mainly used as pasture for both livestock and wildlife which has led to the development of ecotourism enterprises. Whereas the presence of ecotourism enterprises are considered an economic success, overall benefits to the local communities are questionable. This book is based on a study done at Il Ngwesi Communal Ranch and Sweetwaters Game Sanctuary in the Laikipia Ecosystem of Kenya and highlights the opportunities and constraints towards attaining sustainable ecotourism in African rangelands. The book underscores the forces shaping the future of ecotourism in rangelands by pointing out the opportunities and constraints - hence its sustainability. On the whole, this book has underscored the need for economic benefits and local community participation as a prerequisite for sustainable ecotourism rangelands. In order to enhance these benefits and encourage the participation of the local communities, the book recommends increased government and private sector support through infrastructure development, regularisation of the land tenure system, provision of capital and capacity building.