The Role of Botsalano Game Reserve in Sustainable Livelihoods and Poverty Alleviation Through Community-Based Tourism Development in South Africa

Abstract

The South African government recognises the importance of community participation in conservation-tourism initiatives that can improve the livelihoods of local communities, contributing to the reduction of the poverty prevalent in natural and rural areas. This study adopted the sustainable livelihood framework to assess the potential for Botsalano Game Reserve to alleviate poverty and improve the livelihoods of communities, using Matlhase village as a case study. Triangulation of qualitative and quantitative methods was used to collect data. The results revealed a population over-reliant on government social grants for livelihood and not significantly benefitting from their proximity to Botsalano Game Reserve. The study concluded that there are possibilities for Botsalano Game Reserve to contribute towards sustainable livelihoods and poverty alleviation. Recommendations are made for policymakers and nongovernment organisations, including the development of human capital and the buy...