Abstract
This study aims to examine the real possibilities of, and actual limitations on empowerment of local women by Community-Based Tourism (CBT). Tanzania Cultural Tourism Programme (TCTP) has been conducted for many years as sustainable, pro-poor, and community-based tourism, with the aim of the development of local community and of small-scale individual incomes.
However, there are discrepancies between men and women in the local communities in terms of their respective opportunities for true empowerment. Because of their lifestyles, it is difficult, if not impossible, for women to create their own business opportunities outside the local community. Moreover, the chances and degree of development for women depend largely on each coordinator or leader even when they are actively involved in TCTP. In conclusion, CBT programs like TCTP function only partially toward the empowerment of local women. We ought to train coordinators and guides to utilize CBT as a more efficient tool for the more even human resource development.
