STAKEHOLDER INTERACTION AND COHESION: ADVANCING INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT IN THE TOURIST GUIDING SUBSECTOR

Tourist guiding plays a critical role and is often regarded as a mechanism for social and economic upliftment due to its relatively low barriers to entry. However, transformation within the subsector has progressed slowly, particularly for women and youth. This study explores the nature of stakeholder interaction and cohesion in advancing the ongoing development and inclusive transformation of the tourist guiding subsector. The research employed in-depth interviews with provincial registrars of tourist guiding and representatives from various guiding associations, resulting in a total of 14 interviews. The findings underscore the importance of recognising and respecting the distinct roles and responsibilities of stakeholders. The study found that a lack of clarity and coordination among stakeholders led to inefficiencies in fulfilling their mandates and aligning with the broader strategic vision for transformation. Overall, the study emphasises the critical role of collaboration, both within and beyond the subsector, in ensuring its continued development amid historical and contemporary challenges. The study contributes practical and theoretical insights to guide inclusive and transformative development within the tourist guiding subsector.