| Abstract |
Human wildlife conflict in agro-ecosystems is a challenge to wildlife management and conservation and a threat to livelihoods of local communities throughout the world. Thus it calls for urgent and efficient mitigation strategies for biodiversity conservation and rural development to be achieved. This study examines the extent and nature of wildlife crop raiding and its implications on the livelihoods of arable farmers in Khumaga in north-central Botswana. The study was informed by the Social Exchange Theory which postulates that individuals support those alternatives from which they expect the most benefits than the costs. Using primary and secondary data sources, findings indicate that arable farming is the main livelihood option in the study area and it mostly affected by wildlife crop raiding than by other factors. The sustainability of this livelihood option is gradually being threatened by increased persistence of crop-raiding by elephants. Elephant destroy many of the farmers’ agricultural produce, with some farmers losing entire field and annual harvest. The losses are frequent and widespread over the study area, creating food insecurity and hatred among arable farmers towards elephants. Results of this study was in line with the SET since the farmers hate elephants and do not want elephants in their area because they do not benefit from them hence they suggest translocation. In light of the above, this study recommends the introduction of collaborative management between farmers and wildlife managers, strengthening of mitigation measures such as undertaking patrols by wildlife officers and re-activation of the electric fence, and lastly undertaking of long term research and monitoring. Both conservationists and farmers should work together in developing strategies that will mitigate the losses, sustain elephant conservation and at the same time offer viable economic alternatives to farmers. |
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