Innovative strategies for balancing conservation and tourism in highland areas: the case of uzumara forest reserve-rumphi in Malawi
Abstract Achieving a balance between sustainable highland tourism, environmental conservation, and enhanced livelihoods for nearby communities is a multifaceted issue due to conflicting priorities. Striking this balance demands collaborative planning, active community participation, and policies tha...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2025-08-01
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| Series: | Sustainable Earth Reviews |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s42055-025-00112-2 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Achieving a balance between sustainable highland tourism, environmental conservation, and enhanced livelihoods for nearby communities is a multifaceted issue due to conflicting priorities. Striking this balance demands collaborative planning, active community participation, and policies that encourage environmentally responsible tourism, fair distribution of benefits, and livelihood options that support conservation. The core challenge is reconciling immediate economic demands with the long-term preservation of ecological and social stability. This research examines how co-management can improve conservation and tourism in developing nations, using Malawi’s Uzumara Forest Reserve as a case study. Through qualitative interviews with forest management committees, surrounding communities, local leaders, and government officials, the study reveals that these highlands play a vital role in cultural, social, and economic well-being. However, insufficient funding for conservation and tourism infrastructure has hastened its degradation. Illegal activities like poaching and wildfires continue to pose a threat to biodiversity and hinder restoration efforts. Additionally, local communities prioritise economic gains, which the current management system cannot adequately provide, worsening the situation. To address these issues, the study suggests innovative solutions such as carbon credit schemes, sustainable nature-based businesses, and strategic infrastructure improvements. These measures aim to protect reserves in highlands while enhancing their appeal to tourists. The proposed strategies provide a scalable framework for other highland areas struggling with similar conservation and development conflicts. |
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| ISSN: | 2520-8748 |