African Fisheries Science (Fisheries/Aquatic) | 11 May 2010
Replication Study on Community-Based Natural Resource Management Plans for Wildlife-Livestock Conflicts Mitigation in South African Kruger National Park Borderlands: Livelihood Benefits and Social Cohesion Study
S, i, p, h, o, M, n, c, u, b, e, ,, M, t, h, u, n, z, i, N, k, w, e, u
Abstract
This study builds on previous research examining community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) plans to mitigate wildlife-livestock conflicts in South African Kruger National Park borderlands, focusing specifically on rural livelihoods and social cohesion. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews and focus groups to evaluate the implementation and outcomes of CBNRM plans within the study area. The findings indicate that community participation significantly improved livestock survival rates by 15% (95% confidence interval: [7%, 23%]) compared to non-participating areas, highlighting increased engagement as a key factor in conflict mitigation success. This replication study confirms the positive impact of CBNRM plans on reducing wildlife-livestock conflicts and enhancing rural livelihoods, with robust statistical support for community involvement's effectiveness. Recommendations include expanding CBNRM initiatives to cover a broader range of borderland communities and integrating gender perspectives into future planning processes. The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.