Abstract
This thesis examines the complex relationships between local communities, protected areas, and tourism development, using the Abe Bailey Nature Reserve in Carltonville, South Africa, (which was historically a mining town) as a case study. The research investigates the perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of various stakeholders to understand the stakeholder dynamics affecting tourism development, effective conservation, and community development in the Khutsong community near the Abe Bailey Nature Reserve. The study utilises a mixed methods research approach, through the use of in-depth interviews with local government representatives, reserve managers, and community leaders, with a focus group discussion with community representatives. The study also involved household surveys with residents of the community.The findings revealed the key stakeholders involved in conservation and tourism within the ABNR as well as the power, and influence over the decisions made. The findings further revealed the constraints facing each of the stakeholder’s contribution to the reserve’s broader goals of conservation and community development. Additionally, the findings showcased that while the reserve provided employment opportunities and training for community members, the nature of community empowerment and involvement in management activities is arguably limited, which is exacerbated by historical tensions between the reserve and community and the community and the local municipality. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of community engagement, benefit-sharing, and collaborative management in achieving sustainable tourism development and conservation outcomes. The research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on community-based tourism and protected area management, providing insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to balance conservation and development goals.