ECOTOURISM AND NATURE PRESERVATION AT THE MOUNT CAMEROON NATIONAL PARK
Author
Mbongei Itoe, Suzan
Term
4. term
Education
Publication year
2023
Submitted on
2023-05-30
Pages
72
Abstract
Mount Cameroon National Park in southwestern Cameroon is rich in biodiversity. This thesis examines how ecotourism can support nature preservation while improving local livelihoods. Using a qualitative approach based on interviews with park management and local communities, the study explores current practices, community contributions, and barriers. Findings indicate that ecotourism can generate revenue for conservation and create economic opportunities, yet significant challenges remain, notably the need for effective park management and meaningful community engagement. Drawing on these insights, the thesis outlines a framework for sustainable ecotourism that integrates community-based tourism, environmental education, and stakeholder collaboration to balance conservation goals with socioeconomic benefits. It recommends clear guidelines and regulations for tourism activities, along with ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and adaptive management to ensure the long-term protection of this ecologically significant area.
Mount Cameroon National Park i det sydvestlige Cameroun rummer stor biodiversitet. Denne afhandling undersøger, hvordan økoturisme kan fremme naturbeskyttelse og samtidig forbedre lokale levevilkår. Med en kvalitativ tilgang baseret på interviews med parkledelse og lokalsamfund belyser studiet den nuværende praksis, lokale bidrag og barrierer. Resultaterne peger på, at økoturisme kan generere indtægter til bevaring og skabe økonomiske muligheder, men at der består væsentlige udfordringer, herunder behovet for effektiv parkforvaltning og meningsfuld lokal inddragelse. På baggrund af analysen skitseres en ramme for bæredygtig udvikling af økoturisme, der kombinerer lokalt forankret turisme, miljøundervisning og samarbejde mellem interessenter for at balancere naturhensyn med sociale og økonomiske gevinster. Afhandlingen anbefaler klare retningslinjer og regulering af turistaktiviteter samt løbende monitorering, evaluering og adaptiv forvaltning for at sikre langsigtet beskyttelse af dette økologisk betydningsfulde område.
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