Abstract ID: 3.8170 | Accepted as Talk | Poster | TBA | TBA

Even though highlands play a critical role in provision of ecosystems services, their state is under threat due to natural factors and human factors. Indeed, climate change and variability is a significant driver of landscape transformation. However, the impact of human factors is immense that highlands landscape have been altered posing a threat to its functions. The impact of highland degradation is even worse in low-income countries where majority of people largely depend on natural resources for livelihoods. Despite the massive degradation, the allure of its breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems presents a peculiar scenario with potential to draw tourists. Using a case study of Uzumara Forest Reserve (under co-management arrangement) located in Malawi, a low-income country Central Africa but possessing unique biodiversity, the study explores how tourism can be used to promote conservation of the forest. The study further explores how other initiatives can be integrated with tourism and conservation to protect the highlands which has unique features using participatory methods.