Distribution of the Benefits of Ngare Ndare Forest Trust and Il Ngwesi Group Ranch Ecotourism Enterprises in Kenya

Abstract

Equity in distribution of the benefits of ecotourism is critical as many African communities have remained poor though they occupy areas that are rich in tourism resources. In Kenya, some studies show tourism has been beneficial to most locals and even pro-poor while others reveal different inequalities including elite capture. In light of this divided opinion, this study investigated the distribution of benefits of Ngare Ndare Forest Trust’s and Il Ngwesi Group Ranch’s ecotourism enterprises in Kenya. The study was a cross-sectional survey that applied mixed-methods approach with quantitative data being collected through face-to-face interviews and qualitative data collected using focus group discussions. Its results showed that the two community owned and operated enterprises yielded various benefits to locals but there was limited channelling of these to women, youth and the poor. The study demonstrates that amidst the degrowth movement’s call for a shift from profit-driven development to community-centred approaches, there is need to address inequities that lie at the pinnacle of local participation in which communities own and operate tourism enterprises. Keywords: Ecotourism; community based tourism; benefit sharing; equity; Kenya