The nature of stakeholder collaboration in innovation in cultural heritage tourism

Abstract

Cultural heritage tourism is a vital sector that fosters cultural preservation, economic development,
and intercultural exchange. However, the industry faces significant challenges, including
sustainability, authenticity, and visitor engagement, necessitating innovative approaches to remain
competitive. This paper explores the nature of stakeholder collaboration in driving innovation
within cultural heritage tourism, with a specific focus on Zimbabwe. Drawing on theoretical
frameworks such as Stakeholder Theory, Collaboration Theory, Innovation Theory, Sustainable
Tourism Theory, and Institutional Theory, the study highlights how multi-stakeholder engagement
can enhance site management, visitor experiences, and sustainable development. Through a
systematic literature review of 100 peer-reviewed journals published between 2000 and 2025, the
paper identifies key stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, private sector
players, and international organizations, and examines their roles in fostering innovation. The
review prioritized studies focusing on cultural heritage tourism, stakeholder collaboration, and
innovation. The findings of this paper illuminate the transformative potential of digital technologies,
such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), in overcoming infrastructural deficits and
enhancing visitor engagement. It also underscore the importance of public-private partnerships
(PPPs) and inclusive policy frameworks in mobilizing resources and ensuring equitable benefits
for local communities.