Assessing the Contribution of Ecotourism to Economic Growth and Rural Development Offered by Wildlife Resources to People Living in Communities around Matusadonha National Park

Abstract

Ecotourism is one of the major drivers of economic growth and rural development in many countries involved in wildlife resource management. The objective was to assess the contribution of ecotourism to economic growth and rural development offered to people living in communities around Matusadonha National Park. A total of 140 participants were interviewed and questionnaires were administered to the same number of people. Data were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Results show that the majority of participants (57%) were females. Safari operations were the major (54.7%) ecotourism activity in Matusadonha National Park. Above half (58.8%) of participants indicated that ecotourism contributed toward economic growth in communities around Matusadonha National Park. Most people (343) were employed on a part-time basis from 2000 to 2022. Participants indicated that the standard of living in most communities increased by more than 50%. Above 50% of participants were satisfied with the contribution of ecotourism towards rural development. It can be concluded that ecotourism has the potential to improve economic growth and rural development if close monitoring and accountability of funds are monitored closely. Local people should be included in the accountability of funds and management of wildlife resources to improve economic benefits to local people.