Human-Wildlife Interactions in the Selous: Causes, Impacts, and Management Approaches in Rufiji District

Abstract

This paper investigated human-wildlife interactions in the Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) employing mixed research methodologies. Three villages, Mloka, Ngarambe, and Tawi, were purposely chosen within two Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). The data collection methods comprised ten key informant interviews, two focus group discussions in each village, a household survey of 120 participants, and a literature review. The enforcement of conservation regulations, infrastructure development, population growth, and wildlife conservation has led to a surge in wildlife in the communities, resulting in significant agricultural damage, injuries, and insecurity. The governmental agencies and investors were the primary decision-makers regarding conflict management measures, whereas the WMA actors held comparatively little influence in the decision-making process. The study identified multiple adverse effects of these interactions, including reduced access to natural resources for communities, absence of compensating mechanisms, and changes in regulations and rules. This paper advocates for more comprehensive conservation strategies that include the requirements of local communities and wildlife within the Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park).