Community-Based Tourism in Zimbabwe: The Case of Chesvingo Cultural Village in Masvingo

Abstract

Community-based tourism (CBT) is considered a vehicle for the poverty alleviation of communities. Chesvingo Cultural Village in Masvingo is one of the community-based tourism enterprises (CBTEs) in Zimbabwe which was revived in 2014 to ensure that communities benefit from tourism resources within their areas. The study aimed to assess the benefits which Chesvingo Cultural Village has brought to the community since its revival in 2014 including the challenges faced. The study adopted a qualitative research design approach. A focus group discussion with the Chesvingo Cultural Village’s seven members of the management committee was the data collection method. The major finding was that, though the community-based tourism enterprises concept was considered a good idea, the benefits to the community especially the economic benefits were below expectations. Hyperinflation, liquidity crunch, fuel shortages, and internal CBTE challenges such as poor management and marketing skills were the major obstacles to a full realization of benefits by the community. The study recommends both the government and the private sector to fully support CBTEs through continuous monitoring, regular training workshops on marketing and management of their enterprises. The government should revive the economy for the sustainable growth and development of CBTEs including Chesvingo Cultural Village in Masvingo.