Stakeholder Networks and the Sustainability of Tourism Projects at Maasai Mara Community Conservancies in Narok County, Kenya

This study examined the influence of stakeholder networks on the sustainability of tourism projects at Maasai Mara Community Conservancies in Narok County. The study was anchored on Stakeholder Theory, employing convergent parallel research design that combines both qualitative and quantitative survey methods to support its findings. The study targeted 889 participants (879 community members who own land for quantitative study, 8 tourism camp managers and 2 conservancy managers). The study employed Yamane's 1969 sampling method to get sample size of the quantitative aspect. Simple random sampling techniques in selecting respondents. Sample size was 275 landowners and 10 keys informants selected through strategic research methods. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and interview guides and analyzed using SPSS version 26 software program. Descriptive statistics that were percentages and frequencies was summarized and presented in tables, graphs and charts. The qualitative data was analysed thematically where voices of the interviewees were captured in the analysis. Majority of respondents, 109 (40.2%) agreed and 87 (32.1%) strongly agreed that tourism stakeholders always keep the local community informed about project plans and changes. The study established that stakeholder networks, knowledge, and perspectives significantly influence the sustainability of tourism projects in the study area. On enhancing inclusive stakeholder engagement, Narok County Government, in partnership with tourism stakeholders, should develop locally driven policies that institutionalize community involvement in tourism decision-making. Key words: Stakeholder Networks, Sustainability, Tourism Projects, Community Conservancies