Inclusive sustainable tourism: An equity approach for local development

Abstract

ABSTRACT Inclusiveness within tourism in developing countries has been questionable. The present study aimed at evaluating local residents’ perceptions of being included in tourism around national parks in Tanzania utilizing the Equity theory as a theoretical lens. Local residents’ perceptions on inclusion were captured using structured questionnaire. At total of 507 usable responses were analyzed using one-sample and paired samples t-tests to compare the mean scores. Results indicate local residents to have mixed perceptions regarding their inclusion in tourism. Specifically, local residents perceive to be excluded in tourism with respect to business opportunities while being included on resource access and use. Residents perceive stakeholders to have different powers, with government having the most followed by the community, private businesses and lastly the non-governmental organizations. Results shed light to policymakers and destination managers on governance aspects that are pertinent in enhancing inclusiveness and sustainability in tourism.