Sustainable tourism development: A case study of Bazaruto Island in Inhambane, Mozambique

Abstract

Sustainable tourism development strategies are regarded as suitable for developed countries, while pro-poor tourism strategies are seen as suitable approaches for underdeveloped countries. Both approaches stress the importance of local community-based or collaborative tourism management. The goal of these strategies is for local communities to achieve a more equitable share of benefits accruing from tourism development. This study dealt with the problem of which policy changes need to be brought about to ensure sustainable tourism development on Bazaruto Island. From an economic perspective, one would wish to examine the economic returns to tourism, ensuring that as many of the benefits as possible stay within Mozambique while some accrue to local community members. In addition, from an ecological perspective, it would be necessary to ensure that much of the pristine environment is retained. The local community would wish to ensure significant participation in preserving and promoting its culture as part of the development of tourism.