Sustainable Tourism in Kenya
Sustainable tourism in Kenya relates to a holistic approach to tourism that encompasses all aspects of the nation’s health. This includes not only it’s natural resources, but also it’s cultural, economic and political health as well.
There is often confusion regarding the differences between sustainable tourism in Kenya and Ecotourism. The general consensus is that ecotourism is a subset of sustainable tourism, focusing on the natural heritage aspects of the country. This is very distinct from nature tourism which is merely allowing tourists to get a glimpse of various aspects of nature without concerning themselves about it’s conservation or their own impact on the environment.
As mentioned, economic and cultural stability is a major concern of those propounding the concept of sustainable tourism. This goal is achieved by ensuring that only locals are employed in businesses that are related to tourism thereby creating jobs and maintaining the culture of the area. In addition,the sale of local arts and crafts allow the residents to understand the value of their own work.
Sustainable tourism in Kenya is an extremely important aspect of the whole tourism industry. It is the bedrock concept on which all future strategic and tactical decisions should be taken.