Successes and Challenges in Community-Based Natural Resource Management in Botswana: A Longitudinal Study

Community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) in Botswana has been implemented to address environmental and socio-economic challenges. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys was employed to gather data from local communities and government officials across Botswana. Over half (54%) of respondents reported improved biodiversity in their managed areas, though there were significant variations in implementation effectiveness across regions. CBNRM has shown mixed results, with varying levels of community participation affecting its success. Future research should focus on enhancing stakeholder engagement and resource management practices. Interventions to increase community involvement and improve resource governance are recommended for future CBNRM initiatives in Botswana. The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.