Lake Malawi National Park Equips 13 Tour Guides for Eco-Tourism Success
This initiative not only enhances the guides' proficiency but also underscores their pivotal role in promoting sustainable eco-tourism at Lake Malawi National Park.
Mangochi, Malawi-Thirteen tour guides, including 4 women, from Mangochi district underwent training in eco-tourism business, part of Lake Malawi National Park's project supported by the African World Heritage Fund (AWHF), writes Maureen Kawerama.
Conducted over five days in Mangochi-Monkey-Bay and co-facilitated by the Malawi Institute of Tourism, Lake Malawi National Park Manager Talandira Kasapira highlighted the critical role of local communities in sustaining eco-tourism.
Kasapira emphasized, "Tour guides are crucial in presenting the park to visitors. They are the face of Lake Malawi National Park and need the right information, skills, and knowledge to effectively showcase it."
Dennis Magodi, Head of Travel and Tourism Management at the Malawi Institute of Tourism, highlighted the necessity of the training due to a knowledge gap among the guides.
He mentioned, "The training addresses the need for accurate information required by the Ministry of Tourism."
Magodi stressed the significance of tour guides beyond tourism, stating, "Their role extends to the security of the country. Neglecting their training risks compromising national security."
Kelvin Muthali, a Tour Guide from Maudzi village, Senior Chief Nankumba in Mangochi, acknowledged the transformative impact of the training. "For the past 6 years, I lacked knowledge and skills. Now, after the practical lessons, I can provide services without challenges," Muthali expressed.
Echoing a similar sentiment, Catherine Baluti from Mangochi-Monkey-bay affirmed that the training provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the tour guide business.
This initiative not only enhances the guides' proficiency but also underscores their pivotal role in promoting sustainable eco-tourism at Lake Malawi National Park.