MACHAKOS UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, ECONOMICS, HOSPITALITYAND TOURISM

MANAGEMENT

UNIT TITLE: ECO TOURISM TOURSIM

UNIT CODE: BTM 474-4

NAME: JOSEPH MUNYOKI

REG NO: T12-3913-2019

TASK:
1. Describe any five carrying capacity approaches that are in use in the different areas we have
visited
(10marks)
2. Using examples Identify any five visible negative impacts of tourism and propose ways of
mitigating them (5marks)
3. Using examples describe five issues and problems of community participation in the places
visited (5marks)
4. Describe (2 ways) how Ecotourism Principles are being applied in any five sites visited
(10marks)

BASED ON A TRIP TO OL PEJETA , MOUNT KENYA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY ,

BUFFALO SPRINGS NATIONAL RESERVE AND OL JOGI WILDLIFE RESCUE
CENTRE

DATE OF SUBMISSION: DEC 5,2023

1. Describe any five carrying capacity approaches that are in use in the different areas
we have visited. (10marks)

1. Population Monitoring and Control: The orphanage and conservancy has implemented
population monitoring programs to track the numbers of different animal species within
their boundaries and within the conservancy. By understanding population dynamics,
they make informed decisions about managing populations through measures such as
translocation, contraception, or culling to ensure that the carrying capacity of the
ecosystem is not exceeded. A case example of Mount Kenya animal orphanage and
conservancy and also ol Pejeta conservancy.

2. Habitat Management: Both Mount Kenya Animal Orphanage and Conservancy and Ol
Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy employ habitat management as a carrying capacity
approach. This involves monitoring and managing the habitats within the conservancies
to ensure that they can support the existing wildlife populations without degradation. This
may include controlling invasive species, restoring degraded habitats, and ensuring the
availability of essential resources such as water and food.

3. Visitor Management and education: Carrying capacity approaches at these

conservancies also involve visitor management. The impact of human visitors on the
environment and wildlife is carefully considered, and measures are implemented to
control visitor numbers, minimize disturbance to wildlife, and educate visitors about
responsible behavior within the conservancies. Example we have ol pejeta which only
allows a maximum of only 4 buses a day inorder to reduce the negative impacts of
emmissions and even emissions of gases which threaten the ecosystem.

4. Collaborative Research: Both Mount Kenya Animal Orphanage and Conservancy and
Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy engage in collaborative research as a carrying capacity
approach. By partnering with research institutions and conservation organizations, they
gather data on wildlife behavior, habitat use, and ecological trends to inform their
carrying capacity assessments and management strategies.

5. Restricted Movements and Zoning as Carrying Capacity Approach in Mount Kenya

Animal Orphanage and Conservancy and Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy
The implementation of restricted movements and zoning as a carrying capacity approach in
Mount Kenya Animal Orphanage and Conservancy and Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy
involves a range of strategies aimed at managing the impact of human activities on the
natural environment while also ensuring the sustainability of wildlife populations.
Mount Kenya Animal Orphanage and Conservancy
 In Mount Kenya Animal Orphanage and Conservancy, the implementation of restricted
movements and zoning as a carrying capacity approach involves the establishment of
designated areas for wildlife conservation and human activities. This includes the
demarcation of zones for different purposes such as wildlife habitat, visitor access, and
infrastructure development. The conservancy employs measures to restrict human
movements in sensitive wildlife areas to minimize disturbance to the animals and their
habitats. This may involve the use of physical barriers, guided tours, and educational
programs to raise awareness about the importance of respecting restricted zones.
Furthermore, Mount Kenya Animal Orphanage and Conservancy utilizes scientific research
and monitoring to determine the carrying capacity of the ecosystem in relation to wildlife
populations, vegetation, water resources, and other ecological factors. By understanding the
ecological limits of the area, the conservancy can implement measures to regulate visitor
numbers, wildlife reintroduction programs, and habitat restoration efforts to maintain a
sustainable balance between human activities and wildlife conservation.
Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy
Similarly, Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy has implemented restricted movements and zoning as
a carrying capacity approach to manage its diverse wildlife populations and natural resources.
The conservancy has established designated zones for wildlife protection, tourism activities,
research initiatives, and community engagement. These zoning measures are designed to
minimize human-wildlife conflicts, protect critical habitats, and ensure that visitors have
controlled access to specific areas while respecting the natural environment.
In addition, Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy utilizes advanced technologies such as GPS tracking
systems for monitoring wildlife movements and behavior. This data-driven approach allows the
conservancy to assess the impact of human activities on wildlife behavior and adjust zoning
regulations accordingly. By integrating scientific research with on-the-ground management
practices, Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy aims to maintain a sustainable carrying capacity that
supports healthy ecosystems and thriving wildlife populations.

QUESTION 2: Using examples Identify any five visible negative impacts of tourism and
propose ways of mitigating them (5marks)

1. Habitat Degradation and Fragmentation Tourism activities such as construction of lodges,

roads, and other infrastructure can lead to habitat degradation and fragmentation. This can
disrupt wildlife migration patterns and lead to loss of biodiversity.
Proposed Mitigation: Implementing strict land use planning regulations to control the expansion
of tourism infrastructure. Designating specific zones for development while preserving larger
areas for wildlife habitats can help mitigate habitat degradation and fragmentation.
2. Overcrowding and Disturbance to Wildlife High tourist numbers can lead to overcrowding
at popular wildlife viewing sites, causing stress and disturbance to the animals. This can also
result in changes in animal behavior and migration patterns.
Proposed Mitigation: Implementing carrying capacity limits for tourist sites to control the
number of visitors at any given time. This can help reduce overcrowding and minimize
disturbance to wildlife.
3. Pollution Increased tourism can lead to pollution through waste generation, including plastic
waste, sewage, and litter. Pollution can have detrimental effects on water sources, soil quality,
and overall ecosystem health.
Proposed Mitigation: Implementing strict waste management practices, including recycling
programs, proper sewage treatment facilities, and regular clean-up initiatives. Educating tourists
about responsible waste disposal can also contribute to reducing pollution.
4. Cultural Erosion Uncontrolled tourism development can lead to cultural erosion within local
communities as traditional practices and beliefs may be influenced or overshadowed by
commercial interests.
Proposed Mitigation: Promoting community-based tourism initiatives that involve local
communities in decision-making processes and provide economic incentives for preserving their
cultural heritage. Encouraging cultural exchange programs between tourists and local
communities can also help preserve traditional practices.
5. Resource Depletion Tourism activities can put pressure on natural resources such as water,
energy, and food supplies in the surrounding areas. Overuse of resources can lead to
environmental degradation and scarcity for local communities.
Proposed Mitigation: Implementing sustainable resource management practices such as water
conservation measures, renewable energy initiatives, and promoting locally sourced food
supplies for tourism establishments. Engaging local communities in sustainable resource
management can also ensure long-term benefits for both the environment and residents.

QUESTION 3. Using examples describe five issues and problems of community

participation in the places visited (5marks)

1. Limited Access to Resources: In some cases, local communities may have limited access
to resources within or around the conservation areas. This can lead to conflicts between
the communities and the management of the reserves. For instance, communities living
around Ol Pejeta may face challenges in accessing water sources or grazing land due to
restrictions imposed by the reserve management.
 2. Lack of Representation in Decision-Making: Another issue is the lack of meaningful
representation of local communities in the decision-making processes related to the
management of the conservation areas. This can result in decisions being made without
considering the perspectives and needs of the communities. For example, at Buffalo
Springs National Reserve, local communities may not have a voice in determining how
tourism revenues are utilized for community development projects.
3. Livelihood Disruptions: The establishment and management of wildlife conservancies
can sometimes disrupt traditional livelihood activities of local communities. For instance,
at Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, restrictions on farming or hunting activities may
impact the livelihoods of communities that depend on these activities for sustenance.
4. Human-Wildlife Conflict: Communities living near these conservation areas often face
human-wildlife conflict, where wildlife encroaches on human settlements, leading to crop
destruction or even posing a threat to human lives. This conflict can strain relationships
between the communities and the conservation authorities.
5. Limited Economic Benefits: Despite the presence of tourism activities in these
conservation areas, local communities may not always receive equitable economic
benefits from tourism revenues. This lack of direct economic benefits can lead to
resentment and reduced support for conservation efforts among the local population.

QUESTION4. Describe (2 ways) how Ecotourism Principles are being applied in any five
sites visited (10marks)

1. Sustainable Accommodation and Transportation:

At Ol Pejeta, the Ol Pejeta Bush Camp and the Morani Lodge offer eco-friendly accommodation
options that minimize the impact on the environment. The camps use solar power, rainwater
harvesting, and composting toilets to reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, the conservancy
has implemented a strict “no plastic” policy, encouraging guests to bring their own reusable
water bottles and bags.
In Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, the conservancy offers guided walking safaris and
horseback riding, which are low-impact activities that promote the conservation of the area’s
natural resources. The conservancy also has a “no litter” policy, and all waste is removed from
the site and recycled or composted.
At Buffalo Springs National Reserve, the reserve has implemented sustainable transportation
practices, such as using hybrid vehicles for game drives and promoting the use of public
transportation for visitors. The reserve also has a policy of not feeding the wildlife, which helps
to maintain the natural balance of the ecosystem.
 2. Community Engagement and Benefit Sharing:
Ol Pejeta has established a community-based conservation program that involves the local
Maasai community in the conservation efforts. The program provides training and employment
opportunities for the community members, such as guiding, conservation education, and wildlife
monitoring. This not only helps to reduce poverty and improve the livelihoods of the local
community but also promotes a sense of ownership and responsibility for the conservation of the
area’s natural resources.
In Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, the conservancy works with local schools and
communities to promote conservation education and awareness. The conservancy also provides
scholarships for local students and supports community development projects, such as the
construction of schools and healthcare facilities.
At Buffalo Springs National Reserve, the reserve has established a community-based tourism
program that allows local communities to benefit from tourism revenue. The program provides
training and support for local tour operators, and the reserve works with local schools and
community groups to promote conservation education and awareness.