CBNRM Successes and Challenges in Botswana: A Systematic Literature Review

Community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) has been implemented in Botswana as a strategy to enhance sustainable use of wildlife resources and promote community welfare. A comprehensive search of academic databases was conducted using specific keywords related to CBNRM and Botswana. Studies published between and were included, with data analysed for thematic synthesis and comparison. The review identified a notable trend towards improved wildlife populations in areas where CBNRM initiatives were implemented (direction: positive), though challenges such as resource distribution inequities persisted (proportion: 45%) across studies. CBNRM has shown mixed success in Botswana, with some communities experiencing benefits but facing significant implementation and equity challenges. Further research should focus on developing more equitable governance structures to enhance the effectiveness of CBNRM initiatives in Botswana. The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.