Systemic approach to Ecotourism in Zinave National Park (Mozambique)

Abstract

The systemic approach to ecotourism allows the development of ecotourism practices to be carried out in a more balanced way, taking into account both economic needs and ecological and social implications. It also encourages the creation of public policies and management strategies that integrate multiple actors, from government agencies to NGOs and local communities. The study aimed to take a systemic approach to Ecotourism in Zinave National Park. It is an exploratory and qualitative research, conducted in the form of a case study. The results show that the Zinave National Park is characterized by having a structure made up of inspection sectors, a community sector and an Ecotourism sector, demonstrating a link of trust between the communities and the park, in which everything that happens within of the park before its execution, communities must be informed through the Vuka Zinave Association. Zinave National Park shares gains from the practice of ecotourism through the provision of 20% of revenue as fulfillment of social responsibility and promotion of other income generation projects, which contribute to development, improved quality of life and well-being communities in the park's buffer zone. Communities in the buffer zone realize that the practice of ecotourism is relevant to local development, because it contributes to increasing employment opportunities, increasing income, promoting trade, products and services, promoting local culture, improving infrastructure, basic structures, among other benefits.