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HUMAN WILDLIFE COEXISTENCE CONFLICT PREVENTION, RESPONSE AND REPAIR
Human-Wildlife Conflicts rank among the major threats to the survival of many wildlife species in Zambia, as well as the security and well-being of local communities We reduce both incidences - and the impact - of Human-Wildlife Conflicts in the communities bordering Nkala and Rufunsa GMAs, particularly those involving elephants, crocodiles, hippos and large carnivores
We take a holistic, three-phased approach to managing conflict, aiming to prevent, respond and repair. This year, we reduced conflict by empowering subsistence farmers living in hotspot areas with increased awareness through radio and print campaigns, alternative livelihoods, effective wildlife-safe deterrents and durable fortification for crops and livestock Our research team trialled a new mitigation method – a potent ‘smelly elephant repellent’ and assessed the viability of sunflowers as an alternative crop to maize. Ranger units provided rapid response capability, driving wildlife away from farmland and back into the protected area
Our Human-Wildlife Coexistence Ranger followed up on 92 incidences, taking time to collect data, connect with those affected and offer compassion. This is crucial to informing management decisions and strategy, as well as placating feelings of fear and frustration. For those households most severely affected by Human-Wildlife Conflict, we have offered welfare support and funeral assistance
(FROM TOP RIGHT) - SMELLY ELEPHANT REPELLANT
HWC Research Assistant, Constance Banda brewing ‘smelly elephant repellent’ - a highly potent liquid this is hung from fence lines to safely deter elephants.
"EYE-COW"
Cattle in Musungwa Chiefdom have been stamped with eye paint to deter large carnivores who rely on the element o surprise to hunt.
Zero Visibility Kraals
Mobile, zero-visibility kraals provide effective protection to livestock at night, when there i a greater risk of predation by lions and othe carnivores.
Boreholes
In addition to providing 150 households with access to clean water and reducing waterborne diseases, the Batunga Community Borehole reduces the risk of
