Protected Area-Based Tourism as a Catalyst for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Protected area-based tourism emerges as a powerful catalyst for achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in southern Africa. A study focusing on Lake Malawi National Park and Etosha National Park demonstrates how such tourism supports SDG 1, 8, and 10 by generating employment and removing socio-economic barriers while advancing SDG 4, 5, 11, 13, 14, and 15 through biodiversity conservation, skills training, gender equality, and sustainable practices. Community participation was identified as central to equitable benefit-sharing and conservation success. The research employed a qualitative exploratory design with in-depth interviews and observations across diverse stakeholder groups, revealing the potential of tourism to promote integrated environmental, social, and economic sustainability when supported by strong community engagement, inclusive strategies, and sustained investment.

Bello, F., LAMBULIRA, M., & Manuel, I. (2025). Protected Area-Based Tourism as a Catalyst for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals. African Journal of Hospitality Tourism and Leisure, 5(14), 1079. https://doi.org/10.46222/ajhtl.19770720.697