Ecotourism- Kenya Flashcards
Did the Masai initially gain from tourism?
No, so they did not have any interest in protecting the wildlife in the park
What was set up in 1996 and what was its aim?
A wildlife conservation area was said up with the aim of protecting both the environment and the local people
What are the aims of the Wildlife Conservation area?
Lease small areas to ecotourism companies
Only allowed to build one hotel
One storey building
The building has to blend in with the natural environment
Use local materials to build the hotel
Employ local people
Buy local food
What was set up in 1997, what did it consist of and who owns it?
Kimana Wildlife refuge. Three tented camps were set up and they were owned by Kenyans
How do the Masai benefit economically from the camps and lodges?
The Masai are paid a rent for the use of their land of about £1000 per year
Olare Orok complex pays £70 a month to each Masai owner
Some Masai men make money as tourist guides
How do the Masai benefit socially from ecotourism?
More children are being sent to school
Better health care
How does ecotourism benefit the environment in the Kimana Wildlife Refuge?
The Masai are not grazing the land
The Masai are not chopping down the trees
Do all Masai people see the benefits of tourism? How are they earning money and what is it damaging?
No, some Masai are continuing with their traditional way of life grazing cattle and planting crops. These activities do not encourage wildlife and cause a loss of local vegetation which does not fit with ecotourism.
What are the negative effects of ecotourism on the Masai?
Some Masai have turned to alcohol
Most adult Masai cannot read and write which means they are vulnerable to cheating tour operators white contracts and leases
Why were the Masai driven off their land?
They were driven off their land in the 1970’s to make way for traditional animals and tourists
