| dc.description.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. | |
