The Serengeti is
the most developed park in Tanzania. Due to the large amount of wildlife, the park’s
tourism is becoming more prevalent in the ecosystem. Tourism in national parks
such as the Serengeti is an economic benefit to the Tanzanian government;
indicating that changes in the ecosystem will occur to accommodate the demands
of tourism. The influx of visitors creates a chain effect because more and more
safari jeeps, roads and ranger posts will be needed within the national park.
Along with changes in the landscape, more rangers and employees are hired to
accommodate the increasing amount of tourists. While the overall park is
preserved due to its status as a national park, the increasing profits from
tourism may slowly alter the ecosystem. Simultaneously, poaching and illegal
hunting from the locals has a big impact on the ecosystem. The extensive
hunting of buffalo in 1977 has made it difficult for the buffalo to recovering
to their original numbers. Illegal hunting also has its benefits, as many
people are willing to buy these dead animals on the black market. Elephants
face hunting for the demand of their tusks. Humans indirectly affect the Serengeti because many
locals have disease carrying dogs that affect the wildlife.
While tourism may
have negative effects on the ecosystem, tourists visiting for the safari
wildlife experience also has positive effects on preserving the national park.
Tourism generates 8.5 million U.S. dollars, illustrating that tourism has
become a large part of Tanzania’s economy. The profit from entrance fees and
safari services fund management of the park, but also provides funds to create
new parks in other parts of Tanzania. The industry also creates jobs, further enhancing local
societies. Since tourism is such a
large facet in the Tanzanian economy, wildlife is necessary to continue generating
profits. This encourages the local communities to preserve the area and to keep
the ecosystem from cultivation or alterations.
