By A Correspondent

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZIMPARKS) is intensifying its efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict by expanding awareness programs in communities near national parks. Despite a reduction in fatalities—from 50 last year to 31 this year—the costs of such conflicts remain significant.

To combat this issue, ZIMPARKS is enhancing its strategies through collaboration with local communities and private sector partners. “Communities are the first line of defense against wildlife encounters,” said Dr. Fulton Mangwanya, Director General of ZIMPARKS. He emphasized the importance of various measures such as beekeeping, trenches, and the use of chili to protect crops and deter wildlife like elephants and crocodiles. In extreme cases, rogue elephants may be removed.

Dr. Mangwanya highlighted the role of public-private partnerships in advancing conservation efforts. Wild Africa CEO Peter Knights praised these collaborations, noting that the combination of government authority and private sector innovation has been beneficial in addressing wildlife conflicts.

Together, ZIMPARKS and Wild Africa are working to foster co-existence between communities and wildlife, aiming to further diminish conflicts and enhance mutual understanding.