Community perspectives on the consolation from human-wildlife conflict damages and the existence of local mitigation measures around protected areas in Tanzania
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Date
2025-09-20
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Springer Nature
Abstract
Wildlife conservation has the potential to make significant contributions to community development. Despite this potential, the sector faces challenges, including human-wildlife conflicts (HWCs). Using semi-structured questions, focussed group discussions, and documentary reviews, we sought to explore local communities’ concerns about HWC and available consolation schemes for HWC damages and the existence of local mitigation measures around protected areas in Tanzania. Results from cross-tabulation on awareness of the existence of consolation schemes due to damages from HWC in the study area varied significantly across the age of respondents at (p < 0.001). A high percentage from a total of 150 respondents aged 36–49 years reported not being aware of the consolation schemes in 34 responses. The distribution of responses about the presence of problem animals did not vary significantly by gender; however, the majority of males (89%) reported the presence of problem animals compared to 83% of females. About 93% reported having no access to consolation schemes, mainly due to a low level of awareness. Conflict mitigation measures used varied significantly across the study area. Respondents reported that different mitigation measures varied significantly across occupation and education levels. Participation of local and indigenous communities in HWC mitigation activities produces better conservation outcomes relative to externally-driven approaches. The study suggests centering communities in the ideation, implementation, and evaluation of HWC mitigation as this will promote equitable and sustainable management strategies for long-term coexistence. Conservation authorities should prioritize efforts to intensify community awareness, focusing on conservation education, establishment of buffer zones, and promoting alternative crops. These initiatives can foster positive attitudes toward wildlife conservation.
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG-:1 No Poverty
SDG-2: Zero Hunger
SDG-4: Quality Education
SDG-10: Reduced Inequalities
SDG-11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
SDG-15: Life on Land
SDG-16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
SDG-17: Partnerships for the Goals
Keywords
Consolation scheme, Community perception, Human-wildlife conflicts, protected areas, Human-wildlife coexistence