Exploring collaborative governance in rural tourism development: Insights from Nqileni village, South-Africa

Abstract

Collaborative governance is increasingly recognized as a critical mechanism in the advancement of the tourism sector, with partnerships serving as key drivers of sustainable tourism development. The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying and supporting factors that drive or hinder collaborative governance in tourism for the development of rural communities. A qualitative case study design was utilized, incorporating semi structured interviews with 15 participants actively or indirectly engaged in tourism initiatives in Nqileni village, Eastern Cape province, South Africa. Purposive sampling, a non-probability technique, guided participant selection based on involvement in tourism governance processes. Data analysis proceeded through manual coding, which enabled the identification of key themes. The analysis revealed three overarching themes: broad and equitable collaboration, leadership and shared values, and adequate resources. The findings highlight that broad and equitable collaboration with shared values, legitimate and skilled conveners, and adequate resources are indispensable in fostering collaborative governance for rural tourism development.