Communities around Hwange National Park struggle with human-wildlife conflict

Thembelihle Mhlanga

Communities residing along the borders of the renowned Hwange National Park are grappling with the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife conflict, as wild animals encroach upon their lands, resulting in the loss of livestock and damage to agricultural fields.

Tikobane Trust, a local conservation organization based in Dete, is spearheading innovative efforts to mitigate the conflict and protect the livelihoods of affected communities. Ndlelende Ncube, the Director of Tikobane Trust, emphasized the urgency of finding effective solutions. “The communities living near Hwange National Park are bearing the brunt of human-wildlife conflict. Livestock losses and crop damage are prevalent issues that need immediate attention.”

Tikobane Trust has developed a range of innovative measures to address the conflict. One such innovation is the development of an elephant repellent, which aims to discourage elephants from encroaching into farmlands and grazing areas. Additionally, the organization has implemented the establishment of special cattle and donkey pens known as Bomas. These enclosures provide a secure space for livestock, shielding them from potential attacks by wild animals.

Ncube further explained, “Our elephant repellent and Bomas have shown promising results in reducing human-wildlife conflict. However, more support and resources are needed to ensure their widespread implementation.”

Despite the efforts being made on the ground, the issue of compensation for the victims of human-wildlife conflict remains unresolved. Tinashe Farawo, the spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks), acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts to address this matter, stating, “The government is yet to finalize the laws that will see the victims of human-wildlife conflict being compensated.”

The delay in finalizing the compensation laws has left affected communities in a state of uncertainty, as they continue to bear the economic losses resulting from livestock predation and crop destruction.In addition to economic losses, human-wildlife conflict has tragically resulted in the loss of human lives.

Amidst these challenges, Tikobane Trust’s mitigation projects have brought relief to some members of the affected communities. John Dube, a farmer from a village neighboring the national park, expressed his gratitude, saying, “The Bomas have been a game-changer for us. They have helped protect our cattle from being attacked by lions and other predators.”

Another community member, Sarah Ndlovu, shared a similar sentiment, stating, “The elephant repellent has been effective in keeping elephants away from our fields. We can now cultivate our crops without constant fear of them being destroyed.”

While these success stories offer hope, the broader issue of human-wildlife conflict requires sustained attention and support from both governmental and non-governmental entities. Timely compensation, improved safety measures, and continued efforts in developing innovative strategies will be crucial in ensuring the coexistence of local communities and wildlife in Hwange National Park.

As the government works towards finalizing the compensation laws, organizations like Tikobane Trust are playing a vital role in mitigating the immediate impacts of human-wildlife conflict and building resilience within the affected communities.