Silba Ndjiharine

University of Namibia

‘Eco-tourism in the Daures Constituency, Erongo region, Namibia – And investigation into the landscapes potential and cultural heritage for sustainable livelihoods’

 Tourism is identified as the engine of economic growth in the Daures constituency. Unfortunately, limited tourism and marketing knowledge has led to tourism production and services failing the market test. Silba’s research seeks to investigate the implementation and challenges of the CBNRM strategies employed by the four conservancies in the Daures constituency and compare findings of this strategy analysis with results pertaining to conservancies in the Kunene region. This includes finding answers to questions whether and  if yes, to what extent the conservancies under consideration are contributing to improve people’s livelihoods, preserve their culture and the sustainability of natural biodiversity for the socio-economic empowerment of the current and future generations. An interesting component of this research will be the study of benefit-sharing between private tourism operators and local communities.