The effect of ecotourism on improving livelihoods in Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipality in the Limpopo Province of South Africa

Abstract

Ecotourism is globally recognised for its potential to alleviate poverty, generate income, improve livelihoods, promote environmental sustainability, skills development and support education. However, its impact on enhancing rural livelihoods is multifaceted and complex, influenced by various factors and stakeholders. This qualitative exploratory study sought to explore and understand the effect of ecotourism on improving the livelihoods of the community of Mathabatha and Mafefe villages in Lepelle-Nkumpi municipality in Limpopo Province. The objectives of the study were to determine the processes of ecotourism, examine the characteristics of livelihoods, assess the determinants of livelihoods improvement and ascertain the effect of ecotourism on the livelihoods improvement of the community of Mathabatha and Mafefe villages. The Sustainable Livelihoods Framework served as the conceptual framework for the study, providing a structured approach to analysing the complex relationships between livelihoods and ecotourism. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with fourteen (14) households, seven (7) key informants and 2 focus groups with community development workers, allowing for an in-depth and nuanced data collection. The study employed purposive and convenience sampling techniques to select the participants, allowing for targeted and accessible data collection. This report presents the key findings and conclusions of the study, aligned with its objectives, providing insights and outcomes based on the research conducted. Thematic data analysis was used to assess the qualitative data, identifying patterns and themes within the textual information collected. The findings revealed that most community members are not benefiting from ecotourism in both villages, resulting in low livelihoods, high poverty rates, unemployment, and limited knowledge about ecotourism opportunities. The study concluded with recommendations to enhance ecotourism effectiveness on improving the livelihoods of the community of Mathabatha and Mafefe villages in Lepelle-Nkumpi municipality and identified potential areas for future research, providing a foundation for further exploration and development.