The dynamic environment of Sustainable tourism in the Northern Circuit of Tanzania: a Stakeholder and Policy perspective

Abstract

This thesis explores how stakeholder groups perceive the social, environmental, and economic impacts of tourism in the Northern Tourism Circuit (NTC) of Tanzania and examines the role of institutions in shaping sustainable tourism in the region. The research adopts a qualitative methodology, based on 18 semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including tour operators, local communities/ tour guides, NGOs/ Advocacy organizations, conservation authorities and tourists. Data were analyzed through a combination of process and descriptive thematic coding to identify cross-cutting narratives. Findings show that stakeholders recognized tourism’s economic value but highlighted inequitable benefit distribution, low wages, economic leakage, and corruption as major barriers to local development. Environmental concerns included overcrowded parks, habitat loss, waste, and climate change, with some positive initiatives acknowledged. Social impacts ranged from inclusive cultural tourism and conservation training to persistent porter exploitation. Institutional analysis revealed that while policies for sustainability exist, weak enforcement, underfunding, and political interference undermine their effectiveness. the research concludes that power imbalances, institutional fragility, and corruption are key barriers to sustainable tourism and that it requires institutional reform, transparent benefit sharing, and meaningful stakeholder participation. Addressing these political and institutional dynamics is essential for achieving sustainable tourism in the NTC.