Fundamental Strategies for Community-Based Tourism Enterprises

A Community-Based Tourism Enterprise (CBTE) is a sustainable business model that builds the capacity of the local communities to use tourism as a tool for community development. In addition to generating income for the local people, a CBTE also enhances the conservation of natural resources and preserves the traditional culture of the locals. Let’s explore foundational aspects that make up an effective CBTE;

1. Acknowledge and promote ownership of tourism by the host community.

The local community should have full ownership, management, and responsibility of a CBTE. If external investors are the founders of a CBTE, then the investors should have a clear partnership plan with the community. This ensures most benefits remain within the community and that the investors do not exploit the community.

2. Respect and promote the cultural identity of the community and uphold their dignity.

Every community has a unique culture and way of life. A CBTE should respect the cultural differences and community traditions of the community. It can achieve this by empowering the community to exhibit their genuine cultural identity allowed within the set traditions. Human dignity and respect are paramount for the success of a CBTE.

3. Involve the community in its management and operations.

Right from its establishment, a CBTE should involve members of a community in the planning, and decision-making aspects of the business. Trustworthy and capable members of the community should be part of the management of the CBTE. Community members may choose to elect their representatives in the CBTE management who will make decisions on their behalf.

4. Promote capacity building within the community.

In addition to training opportunities for community members, capacity building may be in the form of cross-cultural learning made possible through the CBTE. Tourism attracts people of different nationalities, cultures, religions, and beliefs. A good CBTE provides a platform for members of the community to learn about other people’s cultures and experiences. The tourists also learn from the community.

5. Distribute tourism benefits equally among community members.

A CBTE should equitably share proceeds from the business with the community members according to the set agreement between them without discrimination. Considerations should be made with respect to empowering women, youth, and persons with disability in the community.

A CBTE should also allocate a specific percentage of proceeds from the business per year and invest in community projects for the locals. These projects may be the construction of a school for local children, hospitals, drilling boreholes, or any other non-tourism-based project that the community needs.

6. Uphold environmental sustainability.

Of utmost importance in the success of a CBTE is the environment and natural resources of its locality. A CBTE should protect and conserve the environment and ensure they promote the sustainable use of their natural resources. It should involve the local community in the sustainability initiatives and conservation programs it chooses to implement.

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