Staff Reporter

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) is intensifying its efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict, particularly in communities near national parks.

Despite a notable decline in fatalities from 50 deaths last year to 31 this year, the issue remains a pressing concern for the government and conservationists.

In response, ZimParks is ramping up its awareness programs and working closely with affected communities to introduce effective mitigation strategies.

In an interview with this publication yesterday, ZimParks Director General, Dr Fulton Mangwanya, stressed the importance of empowering communities as the first line of defence.

“It’s critical for the Government to address this issue because communities are at the forefront of wildlife encounters. ZimParks has taken steps to improve livelihoods by implementing measures that protect people and their crops from wildlife, particularly elephants and crocodiles. 

“Additionally, ZimParks is promoting the cultivation of chilli, another proven method to repel elephants. In cases where rogue animals pose an imminent threat, lethal measures, such as culling, are occasionally employed,” he said.

Dr Mangwanya highlighted the role of public-private partnerships in enhancing conservation efforts and reducing casualties.

“Private-public partnerships have become an essential vehicle of support for our conservation programs. These collaborations enable us to combine the moral and legal authority of the government with the innovation and quick response capabilities of the private sector.

“Some of the strategies being employed include beekeeping projects, which serve as a natural deterrent to elephants, as well as the use of trenches to prevent animals from entering farmland. Although trenches can be expensive to construct, they have proven effective in safeguarding crops,” he explained.

Private organisations such as Wild Africa have been instrumental in these efforts.

CEO of Wild Africa, Peter Knights, emphasised the strength of these partnerships.

“The best combination is having the Government and private sector work together. Government provides leadership and legal frameworks, while the private sector often brings the ability to innovate and respond quickly to emerging issues. We have seen these partnerships thrive, particularly in conflict mitigation,” said Knights.

ZimParks and its partners are committed to finding long-term solutions that promote coexistence between communities and wildlife.

Through these efforts, ZimParks and Wild Africa aim to reduce human-wildlife conflict and promote coexistence between communities and wildlife.