Opportunities and Challenges for Multi-Level-Stakeholder Participation in Community-Based Ecotourism Development: The Case of the Boabeng- Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, Ghana

• Published in: Journal of the Economic Geographical Society of Korea Vol. 21; no. 1; pp. 53 - 68
• Main Authors: Owusu Victor, Yaw Agyeman Boafo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 한국경제지리학회 01.03.2018
• Subjects: 지리학
• ISSN: 1226-8968; 2713-9115
• DOI: 10.23841/egsk.2018.21.1.53

Community-based ecotourism (CBE), if well-developed can be a practical approach for promoting socio-economic well-being and sustaining ecological resources. The growth and its development worldwide especially in developing economies is a welcome development. The study aimed at assessing the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary in Ghana, as an example of traditional conservation system of management that has ensured greater community participation, equity, inclusiveness, and multi-level stakeholder partnership. In-depth interviews with key informants and documentary analysis of relevant peer reviewed and grey literature were the main qualitative data collection used. Results revealed that majority of the interviewees support and value the current system of traditional management. The enforcement of rules and regulations and other cultural and religious practices were discussed by key informants. Opportunities for multiple livelihood strategies as a result of the CBE is seen as critical for increasing local’s acceptance and participation. The remarkable growth of the sanctuary, as well as the increase in human population, has created a shortage of land for domestic and other commercial purposes which is identified as posing a major challenge to the sustenance of the sanctuary. The study recommends diversification of livelihood opportunities presented by the presence of the sanctuary like the introduction of homestay concept, craft making- wood carving, painting, artisan shops. KCI Citation Count: 0