In-Situ Conservation and Rural Tourism Earnings in Volcanoes National Park: Community Engagement Impact Five Years On

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse ecosystems and significant biodiversity, including the mountain gorillas. Qualitative data collection methods were employed to gather insights from local communities and stakeholders involved in tourism activities. Community participation in tourism initiatives increased by 20% over the past five years, contributing significantly to local livelihoods and environmental conservation efforts. While community engagement has grown, there is still room for improvement in equitable distribution of benefits from tourism revenues among all park stakeholders. Enhanced training programmes should be developed to improve cultural sensitivity and service delivery standards within the tourism sector.