Enclaves and Shadow State tourism in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Tourism development in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, has created a 'tourism enclave' dominated by multinational companies and local elites, leading to increased corruption and monopolization of tourism benefits. This study uses the concept of Shadow State to analyze how such enclaves emerge and their impacts on sustainable tourism ideals. Through qualitative research, it reveals that the dominance of foreign investors and political ties has hindered inclusive growth, posing a threat to Botswana's sustainable development agenda. The findings underscore the need for more equitable tourism practices to align with global sustainability goals.

Mbaiwa, J. E., & Hambira, W. L. (2019). Enclaves and Shadow State tourism in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. South African Geographical Journal, 102(1), 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/03736245.2019.1601592